(Olivia’s POV)
The night air felt heavy against my skin as I watched Hazel and Isabella approach through the forest shadows. Exhaustion weighed on me like chains, but pride kept me standing. Their faces were grim in the moonlight, and Isabella's hands were stained dark with herbs – likely from grinding healing potions.
"Holy Moon Goddess," Hazel breathed as she reached me first, her eyes widening at my condition. "You look like you've been dragged through hell backwards."
"You should see what I did to Richard's guards," I managed, though even forcing a smile hurt.
Isabella stepped closer, her practiced healer's gaze cataloging every injury. "These wounds... they're not natural. The dark magic has left traces." Her fingers hovered over the ritual marks on my wrists. "How are you even st
