The sun had barely risen, casting long shadows over the Dragon Kingdom's stronghold. James, Pippy, Lynara, and Cherry were still basking in the warm glow of their recent triumphs and the quiet intimacy they had shared the night before. It felt like the briefest moment of peace in the never-ending storm that had surrounded their lives. But peace was never meant to last for long.
It began with a knock on the door of James's chamber, one that came with a sense of urgency. James groaned as he stirred from his sleep, disentangling himself from Pippy, who was still curled against him. Her soft breath barely shifted in response, but he knew something had changed the moment he heard another knock, more forceful this time.
"James," a voice called from the other side of the door. "Urgent news."
