Light of the Dawn

30. Knocking on Death's Door

Isarella stood at the edge of the battlefield, her boots sinking slightly into the soft earth as she scanned the vast expanse before her. The air was thick with tension, but also with an undeniable sense of unity. All around her, familiar faces from the Battle against Hybern were gathered once more, each standing tall, ready to fight for the world they'd sworn to protect.

To her left, the Spring Court had assembled, with Tamlin standing at the forefront, his golden hair tousled by the wind, his eyes sharp with focus. His soldiers lined up behind him, all wearing armor that glinted in the sunlight, their faces set in grim determination.

On her right, the Winter Court stood under the leadership of Kallias and Viviane. Their silver and ice-blue armor shimmered, blending seamlessly with the cold breeze that swept across the battlefield. Kallias's piercing blue eyes met Isarella's for a moment, a silent exchange of understanding between old allies. Viviane, ever composed, nodded firmly in her direction, the weight of the battle heavy on her shoulders.

And directly ahead, the Summer Court's warriors, led by Tarquin, stood with their backs straight, their golden armor reflecting the rays of the sun. Tarquin's fiery eyes were filled with unwavering resolve as he surveyed the field. He had once fought beside Isarella, and she could feel the shared history between them as their gazes met.

The air between the courts crackled with anticipation as a mixture of Dawn, Day, and Night forces stood in the middle, waiting for the signal to advance. It was a rare sight, the coming together of such powerful courts, each with its own distinct history, but now bound by the common goal of victory.

Isarella's heart swelled with pride as she surveyed her own soldiers. The Dawn Court, her court, stood strong and steady, with her father, Perseus, leading the charge. He was a towering figure, his posture straight as a flag bearer of strength. Beside him, his warriors, all clad in gold and amber, stood at the ready, their eyes gleaming with determination.

Helion and Lucien flanked her father, leading the Day Court's forces. Helion's hair seemed to flicker like flames as he gave Isarella a nod, a wordless gesture of trust. Lucien, with his characteristic sharp gaze, stood just behind him, his presence a steadying force to those around him.

And then, there was Rhys, her brother, standing at the head of the Night Court's forces. He looked every bit the High Lord of Night, his dark wings spread slightly in a display of power, his eyes glowing with a fierce, protective light. His presence commanded respect from everyone on the field, and Isarella couldn't help but feel a swell of pride in her chest.

She turned to her mate, Azriel, who stood beside her, his shadows swirling around him in anticipation. His dark eyes met hers, and for a brief moment, the world seemed to still. His usual calm was replaced with an intensity she knew all too well—the silent understanding that this battle, like every battle before it, would be fought with everything they had.

Azriel's hand found hers, squeezing gently. His voice, though soft, was steady with conviction. "We fight for them, Isa. We fight for us. For our future."

Isarella's lips curved upward in a small, determined smile. "We fight for a better world." She squeezed his hand back, her heart steadying in the midst of the chaos that loomed. "We're not losing this fight."

He met her gaze, his eyes filled with love and unwavering support, and for a moment, it was as if nothing else mattered. The world, the battle, it all faded away, leaving only the bond between them—stronger than any enemy they might face.

The horn sounded, a deep, resonant call that echoed across the battlefield. It was a sound that sent a chill down Isarella's spine, but also filled her with purpose. The time had come.