Darkness coiled at the edges of the room, threads of the Veil snapping and writhing like living shadows. Every pulse of energy vibrated against her skin, a warning and a challenge in equal measure. Kael stood at her side, shadow curling tightly around her, protective and possessive. Riven lingered just behind, heat radiating off him in waves that made her pulse spike, every nerve alight.
The Veil’s form shimmered into focus, taller and more menacing than before. Its red eyes glowed with hunger, measuring, testing, probing. Alina’s mark flared in response, threads twisting and stretching outward like liquid power, tangling with Kael’s shadows and the subtle echo of Riven’s fire.
“Stay calm,” Kael whispered, voice low and dark. “Every pulse, every shiver… it notices. But it’s your mark. Le
