Chapter 62: Sanctuary
The heavy oak door to their private chambers swung shut with a resounding thud, sealing out the chaos of the war council and the biting chill of the fortress corridors. The air inside was thick with the scent of pine from the crackling hearth, a stark contrast to the metallic tang of fear and strategy that had permeated the great hall. Lyra's shoulders sagged the moment the latch clicked into place, her warrior's facade crumbling like a dam giving way to a flood. She leaned against the door, her breath coming in ragged gasps, and silent tears began to stream down her cheeks. The news of Elias's capture had been a dagger to her heart, twisting deeper with every tactical discussion, every grim prognosis from the pack elders. Her brother—her blood—was in the enemy's clutches, and the weight of it all threatened to crush her.
