Chapter 73

• The flickering light of the stronghold’s torches cast long shadows as Amara made her way to her quarters. The day had been exhausting, filled with council meetings, tense negotiations, and the constant hum of unease that seemed to permeate every corner of their alliance. She had barely sat down when there was a soft knock at the door.
• “Come in,” Amara called, her voice edged with weariness.
• The door opened, and a fae stepped inside. Tall and ethereal, with silver hair that shimmered like moonlight and eyes that seemed to hold centuries of wisdom, Elaris, the fae ambassador, moved with a quiet grace. Her presence was always calming, yet tonight there was an unusual seriousness in her expression.