The night stretched quiet and serene over the mountains, the fire from the camp dimming to a faint glow as the goddesses drifted off to their separate resting places.
Adrian stood at the edge of the clearing, staring out at the darkened peaks that seemed to rise endlessly into the starlit sky.
The silence surrounded him, heavy and persistent, making him focus on his own thoughts. For the first time in days, there was no ongoing battle, no deadly traps to avoid, and no complicated discussions with seven strong-willed people.
This moment left him alone with his own thoughts and memories.
Adrian closed his eyes for a moment, clenching his fist tightly. He had always been in charge; in control. As the king of Meridia, he had confidently led his people. His words were law, his decisions were firm and calculated.
But the arrival of the Shadow Court had destroyed that control.
The attack on Meridia had been swift and ruthless.
