Chapter 53: Chapter 53: The Raider's Challenge

The dawn was still a few hours away when Draven and his contingent set out from Vhalar, the chill of the early morning air biting at their skin. The sky was a deep indigo, speckled with stars, and a crescent moon hung low on the horizon. The city behind them was quiet, the streets empty as most of Vhalar's citizens slept. Draven knew that their mission was risky, but he also understood that success here could change the course of their negotiations with the Southern Coalition.

Aria rode beside him, her eyes sharp and alert. The Lionguard had been selected carefully for this mission—only the most experienced and reliable soldiers would accompany them into the raider camp. The small group moved swiftly and silently through the rugged terrain, their movements guided by the dim light of the moon.