Darien's POV
I became aware that someone was following me long before I reached the turn that led toward the old clearing near the northern border. The awareness came gradually, like a faint pressure at the back of my mind, the subtle shift in the rhythm of footsteps that did not belong to me. I kept my pace steady and my posture relaxed, refusing to give any sign that I had noticed. Whoever trailed me kept a careful distance, far enough not to seem obvious, yet close enough that they clearly did not want to lose sight of me.
I did not look back. Instead, I slowed slightly as if adjusting my stride, and within seconds I sensed the faint adjustment behind me. That was confirmation enough. I let out a slow breath and continued forward, my thoughts already racing ahead of the situation.
If
