Chapter Five: The Fourth Army at Frostbridge

“Frostbridge belongs to the north,” she called. “Withdraw before sunset or we consider this war.” “Did Ysolde order you to take the bridge first?” “She did.” No lie-flame. Truth did not prove innocence. It merely showed where each chain of command had broken. Serena crouched beside the stones and rubbed ash between her fingers. “Dragoncrystal powder. The bridge is a fuse.” The transparent imprint warmed. 【Causal anchors: Red command token, Frost badge, dragoncrystal explosive, true names of both commanders.】 【Intermediate deduction available.】 【Price—forget the warmth of your mother’s embrace.】 Infant Lain rested against a woman’s shoulder while she hummed a wordless song. It was the last warmth he possessed of her.