KIRAThe sun sank deeper behind the craggy peaks of the Western Range, painting the high terrace of the High Keep in rich streaks of deep crimson, burnt orange, and soft violet.A gentle, pine-scented breeze swept past the carved timber arches, bearing up from the valley floor the fresh, crisp scents of damp slate, sweet resin, and the comforting drift of woodsmoke from thousands of quiet hearths. Down in the basin of Sun Ridge, forty thousand free citizens prepared for the evening. Long lines of amber lanterns flickered awake along the thoroughfares, casting a warm, steady glow over a peaceful realm where human and shifter lived in absolute, permanent harmony under the Sun Ridge Accord.I sat back comfortably in my deep cedar armchair, the thick wool throw pulled snug across my knees, my weathered hands resting atop the polished oak handle of my walking cane.Beside me, Kade stood like an ancient guardian carved directly into the mountain stone. His towering, broad-shouldered frame c
Last Updated : 2026-09-24 Read more