NORA POV
The moonflowers glowed pale at our backs, fading behind the veil’s edge. We stepped from the Veiled Wilds into the first light of dawn. Air was crisper here—earth freshly washed.
Beside me, Liana stirred in her arms, a tiny pink yawn parting her lips. The puppy, Isis, brushed against my cloak—no longer wild-bred, but guardian.
I raised the scepter to the sky, then lowered it. No fanfare—just quiet acknowledgment.
“We’ve opened doorways,” I whispered. “Now home calls.”
Kalen linked his fingers through mine.
“Lead the way,” he said gently.
We traveled through silent hills and dew-laced meadows. Though the Veiled Wilds would remain veiled until needed, magic lingered in every blade of grass—a subtle hum beneath daylight.
Valya rode ahead, keen-eyed for threats. Daemon accomp
