Warm sun filtered through Danielle's lashes as she felt like she fell gently to the ground. The soft rustle of wind in the roses. The scent of earth and flowers and something ancient.
“You’re back!” Seth’s voice hit her ears, frantic and sharp with relief. “You scared the hell out of me, Danielle, seriously, what even was that?!”
She sat up too fast and instantly regretted it. Her head spun, limbs heavy. Rose was already kneeling beside her, a serene presence amidst the chaos.
“You did well,” Rose said softly, “You freed it.”
“The Veilborn?” she rasped. “I—did I fix it? Did I—” she paused, glancing at Seth, then back to Rose. “Is it done? Destiny fulfilled? Do I get to, like, nap for a century now or…?”
Rose’s smile was kind but laced with that signature regret that always preceded ba
