Reclaiming My Broken Luna (Astrid and Killian) novel Chapter 426

Astrid’s POV

The unease had taken root deep in my chest, twisting tighter with each passing moment.

The Packhouse bustled with warriors and scouts moving in and out, delivering updates and taking orders, but it didn’t soothe the gnawing feeling in my gut.

It felt like standing on the edge of a cliff, waiting for the inevitable plunge.

I stood in the war room, pretending to focus on the reports spread across the table.

Maps marked with patrol routes and potential rogue movements stared back at me, but none of it felt real.

My eyes kept darting to the door, half-expecting someone to rush in with news of an attack.

Killian was on the other side of the room, speaking with Ryder. His golden eyes burned with intensity, and the tension in his stance betrayed his own worries, though he’d never admit them outright.

Killian always bore the weight of leadership with unwavering strength, but I knew he felt the strain just as much as I did.

“The eastern border,” Ryder said, his voice carrying across the room. “That’s where the most recent sightings have been. Scouts reported tracks leading deeper into rogue territory, but no direct signs of an attack.”

Killian nodded, his tone clipped as he responded. “Send another team to investigate. If they’re gathering there, I want to know why. Make sure the warriors are prepared for an ambush.”

Ryder bowed slightly before turning to leave. As he passed me, he offered a brief nod, but I barely registered it. My focus was on Killian, who finally turned his gaze to me.

“You’ve been quiet,” he said, crossing the room to stand beside me.

“I’ve been thinking,” I replied, my voice softer than I intended.

Killian studied me for a moment, his brow furrowing. “What is it, Astrid? You’ve had that look all day.”

I hesitated, trying to find the words to explain the weight pressing on me. “It’s too quiet,” I said finally.

“The rogues… their movements don’t make sense. A few scattered sightings, but no real attacks? It’s deliberate. Ardan’s planning something, Killian, and it’s not going to be small.”

Killian sighed, his hand brushing against mine. “We’ve reinforced every vulnerable spot. The warriors are ready, the borders are secure. We’re prepared.”

“I know,” I said, shaking my head. “But it doesn’t feel like enough. He’s not going to come at us head-on. He’ll find a way to blindside us.”

Killian’s expression softened, and he placed a hand on my shoulder. “Astrid, we’re not letting our guard down.

Whatever he’s planning, we’ll stop him. You’re not alone in this.”

I nodded, wanting to believe him, but the knot in my chest refused to loosen.

My gaze shifted to the doorway, and my thoughts drifted to Elara and Ryker. The memory of Cedric’s words still haunted me: He’ll come for the children.

“I’m going to check on them,” I said abruptly, stepping away from the table.

Killian frowned but didn’t stop me. “You don’t have to,” he said gently. “The guards are watching over them. They’re safe.”

“I know,” I replied. “But I’ll feel better if I see them.”