The corridors of the castle felt almost serene after the chaos of the Veil’s assault, though Alina knew it was a fragile calm. Shadows flickered along the stone walls, dancing in the torchlight, a reminder that even here, danger lingered. Kael followed close behind, his shadowed presence sweeping along the floor like a silent sentinel. Riven lingered at her side, fire simmering beneath the surface, warming the spaces Kael didn’t touch.
Alina moved carefully, the faint glow of her mark pulsing lightly. It wasn’t just a warning now—it was a guide. Each thread responded instinctively to her intent, and she could feel the Veil’s lingering presence as clearly as the warmth pressing against her back. It was intoxicating and slightly unnerving.
“You’ve adapted quickly,” Kael said, voice low and
