NORA POV
The dawn was pale and tentative, as though the world hesitated before unleashing another day. Our convoy filed through the Citadel gates—guards in moon-silver armor, the Mage‑Prince’s envoy in their deep green banner, and behind them, the wild outskirts edging toward Viremoor.
Liana slept soundly, wrapped in a blanket shot with silver threads that glowed faintly against her fur. The cradle was secured in a carved cart beside me. Valya rode at my side, her steel gaze sweeping the treeline.
I inhaled the morning air—pine and promise.
“Are you ready for this?” I asked softly.
Kalen’s hand slid to mine, thumb brushing the spiral on my wrist. “As long as we go together.”
I nodded. “Let hope guide us.”
KALEN POV
The road changed as we left cultivated fields behind. Wildflowers
