Ivara's POV
The letter held only a few lines, but each one landed heavier than the last. Draven demanded proof that I was alive, nothing more, no plea for my return, no apology, only the cold, careful wording of a man protecting his pride even while his world quietly fell apart around him. I read it twice before handing it to Kael, watching his expression harden with every line.
"He says nothing of wanting you returned," Kael said finally, his voice tight. "Only proof."
"What will you tell him?"
"Nothing." Kael folded the letter and set it directly into the flames, watching it curl black at the edges. "He forfeited any claim to answers the moment he threw you into rogue territory to die."
I should have felt relief. Instead, I felt something colder settle over me, the memory of Draven'
