[Lavinia's POV — Deep within the Hunting Grounds]
The horns blared, splitting the air like a war cry. Silence died instantly. Hooves thundered against the forest floor as nobles surged forward, arrows slicing the air, and banners fluttering in the chaos.
I tightened my grip on the reins. My stallion responded with power and precision, muscles coiling beneath me. Marshi's low growl rolled beside me, golden fur shimmering in the shafts of sunlight piercing the canopy.
Branches whipped past. The scent of pine, wildness, and blood mingled in my nose. Perfect. This… this is where I thrived.
"Your Highness!" Haldor's voice broke through the storm.
"Just follow quietly," I called over my shoulder, eyes fixed on the shadows ahead. "Do not hunt. This is my task alone."
Haldor bowed slightly. "As you wish, Your Highness."
The forest trembled beneath massive, measured footsteps. My pulse quickened. A boar? No. Too deliberate… too commanding.
Then it appeared.
