The morning after the battle was quiet.
Aldrich woke in his tent to the sound of wind howling outside. His body ached. Every muscle felt heavy. His essence reserves were still depleted from the fight against the wraiths. The system had warned him to rest for at least two days before engaging in combat again.
But rest wasn't an option.
A knock came at his tent entrance.
"Prince Solomon," a voice called. It was one of the castle servants. "Queen Elara requests your presence immediately. The war room. She says it's urgent."
Aldrich sat up slowly. His shoulder was stiff. He rolled it, feeling the joints crack. "Tell her I'll be there in ten minutes."
"Yes, my lord."
The servant's footsteps faded into the snow.
Aldrich stood and dressed quickly. He pulled on the thick fur coat that Winterhold had provided him. The cold bit at his skin the moment he stepped outside.
