Keris Vorn arrived at Drak'thar before dawn.
She came alone, without escort, through the dimensional gate that connected the Tribunal's central hub to the dragon kingdom. Her robes were travel-worn. Her expression was heavier than Owen had ever seen.
"The destabilization is accelerating beyond predictions," she said without preamble. "Xel'taris was not an isolated failure. Three more civilizations are showing critical infrastructure stress. The Valorin faction is using the chaos to justify military mobilization."
Lord stood in the courtyard, waiting. He had known she was coming. He felt the shifts in the cosmic substrate the way Owen felt changes in atmospheric pressure.
"How many beings are at risk," Lord asked.
"Estimates vary. But if the cascade continues at current rate..." Keris paused. "Billions. Within months."
Owen's jaw tightened.
