His words landed heavy. Lila lifted her chin. Thorne studied the envoy with focused eyes. Elara reached for my hand.
Darius leaned forward. "What proof do you bring beyond warnings?".
The envoy unrolled a worn hide marked with strange runes. "Survivors from lost ships speak of voices that name your heirs. The shadow tests borders with storms and whispers. It waits for the right alignment to strike directly. My people offer knowledge in exchange for alliance. We have maps of the deep currents and rituals to quiet the call."
Kane examined the hide. Rylan kept his hand near his axe. I kept my voice steady. "We thank you for the warning. Rest while we consider your words. Frostfang welcomes honest guests but guards its own."
After the envoy left the hall the kings and I spoke privately. Darius paced near the window. "The shadow reaches for them by name now. We cannot ignore this."
