20 Chapters
Chapter 25 THE SUMMIT OF THREE BANNERS

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CHAPTER 20- THE CROWN SPLITS LIKE ICE
Three days after the raiders accepted work instead of violence, Jackline returned to the stronghold. Snow had melted to slush, mud streaking the main gates. Spring tried to arrive - but winter lingered like an unfinished argument.
Inside the walls, the air was tense.
Not outwardly hostile.
Not chaotic.
But expe