"I've missed them," Heappal said quietly. "Salviana. Jean. Even Lucius. And Thalia… Tell me she's safe."
"She is," Jaefel said. "Last we heard."
"And the wizard? Sebastian?"
Samion made a face. "Unfortunately, still breathing."
Heappal chuckled despite the soreness in his chest.
"But Alaric's calling us," Samion said, voice steadying. "So whatever's coming—he means to end it."
"And we'll be there when he does," Jaefel replied. "Together."
They rode in silence after that, the only sound their horses' hooves on damp forest earth and the rustling of leaves overhead. The moonlight watched them from above, patient and pale, as if even the stars were waiting to see what would become of the Third Prince's rebellion.
But for now—three knights rode under moonlight, heading for the castle where fate would unfold.
A brotherhood reborn.
And a war not yet lost.
Meanwhile,
