Chapter 30: The Night Before War

Peace was an illusion.

Even here, in the relative quiet of Haven’s Rest, I could feel the war breathing down my neck. It lurked just beyond the stars, waiting for us to step back onto the battlefield.

But for one night, I let myself forget.

Or at least, I tried.

I sat alone in my quarters, a half-finished glass of Narn firewine on the table before me. The room was dimly lit, the glow of the distant stars filtering through the viewport. I should have been reviewing battle plans, strategizing for the next engagement.

Instead, my mind was stuck on her.

Ny’Vara.

The way her lips had felt against mine. The fire in her touch. The intensity in her golden eyes.

I had fought in battles that felt less dangerous than the emotions stirring inside me.