The First Test Awaits
Lorenzo’s gaze, intense and filled with concern, held mine as he stepped back from the circle of ancient stones. The ritual was complete. The blood, drawn from a small cut on my finger, shimmered in a vial, its crimson glow reflecting the dim light of the chamber.
“It’s done,” he said, his voice a low rumble. “We’ve learned what we needed to know.”
He looked at me, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. "You’re stronger than you think, Grace. You handled the process with a strength I hadn’t expected."
I blushed, feeling a warmth spread through me. His words, his admiration, it was intoxicating. "I’m still learning," I said, my voice a little shaky.
He smiled, a genuine smile that softened his usually serious features. "You're a quick study," he said. "But we're
