Page 7 of Highland Lords of War & Thunder: The Prequel

Legion lifted his gaze. “What rumblings?"

Toggin shrugged. “Oh, you know how stories grow with every mile traveled. By the time they reach me, there's little truth left in them.” He climbed onto the wagon seat. “From what I hear Morra Mist is a peaceful isle with a good queen, though some would argue otherwise. Who knows what's truth and what's tale?" If I hear anything worth repeating, I'll let you know next time.”

With a snap of the reins, the wagon rolled out of sight.

Legion stood alone.

The woods had grown quiet once more. Yet the peace he had enjoyed these past weeks had slipped away with a single name.

Morra Mist.

Night settled over the keep with uncommon restlessness.

The wind arrived first. It whispered through the ancient oaks before growing into a mournful howl that pressed against the stone walls.

Legion lay awake, listening.

It was nothing more than a storm.

Rain began to fall, soft at first, then harder until it pounded the roof in a relentless rhythm.

Lightning flashed, lighting the room, then thunder split the air.

Another flash, this one blinding and another crash that felt as if it shook the stone walls.

Legion sat up. Something wasn't right. He had weathered storms on mountain passes, at sea, and upon blood-soaked battlefields. None had felt like this. The air itself seemed charged, as if waiting.

A deafening crack split the night.

This time it was unmistakable… the cottage trembled. Then the shutters burst open, slamming against the stone. Wind tore through the room, blowing out the fire and scattering ashes from the hearth.

Legion rose and crossed the room, reaching for the shutters.

Another blinding flash lit the chamber, and he froze as the wind and rain came to an abrupt halt.

The silence was absolute.

A woman's voice, clear and commanding, filled the chamber.

“War that conquers, thunder that roars,

The final strike when kingdoms fall.

By debt unbroken, by promise bound,

Hear my voice and heed my call.

I summon thee to me… Queen Eudora of Morra Mist.”

Legion stood rigid. The words echoed through him long after the voice had fallen silent.

Outside, a gentler rain and wind returned.

And he wondered what fate had in store for him.

Chapter Four

Torden