In The Village of Crows

**re upload! Previously titled Dusk**
"I visited Alenis again. It's been a few weeks since I last saw her. One of her guards ran in the throne room and told her that the Dark King was on his way to the throne room. I had never seen a woman poise herself so professionally in the face of danger. She had me sit behind the throne, worrying the Dark King would become enraged at my presence.
"the whole time she spoke, she was more than respectful to the vile man. That day I had finally understood Alenis's fear. He planned to take Avenir for himself and rebuild the Dark Kingdom. He said it was happening, by one of two choices. She could marry him, or he would take her land by force. She said she was in no place to give her hand, nor was there anyone around who could.
"The king said to expect troops by dusk the next day. I stayed the night to reassure her and keep an eye on her safety. His threat was not an empty one. Avenir lost 653 soldiers this day.
"Alenis was crushed, but nevertheless persisted, she continued to send for her father and brother, though they never came."
Tears prick my eyes and I skip to the last few pages.
"Avenir was lost today. The Dark King is presumed dead, though dark forces are currently in control. I have yet to hear from the Tudors.
"I went to Avenir in reconnaissance, it was truly decimated. I found a beaten Alenis and an angry Jaimie. I offered them stay in Daieli, but Jaimie refused. I had worried for Alenis's health, though Jaimie wouldn't let me speak to her. I saw pain in her eyes and nothing in Jaimie's."
I turn to the very last page. It is not Bran's handwriting. the cryptic message sends chills down my spine.
"Hell is upon you."