The eastern solar tower shuddered under another heavy impact against the barred doors. Wood groaned and splintered at the edges, but the reinforced oak held for now. On the far side, loyal royal guards clashed with traitors trying to force their way through, steel ringing and wolves snarling in the corridor beyond.
Inside, the air was thick with the scent of moon herbs, blood, and raw magic.
Kael kept his massive, clawed hands locked around Seren's ankles, every muscle in his body rigid. Aeron stood at her head; palms pressed gently yet firmly to her temples. Theron guarded her left side, one hand resting on her shoulder while the other hovered near his blades, ready if the doors gave way.
