NIGHT OF TRIALS
The forest had transformed into a battlefield. Shadows twisted and coiled around the trees, crawling like living nightmares. Every rustle of leaves, every whisper of wind seemed amplified, carrying with it the scent of malice. Nara’s bloodline thrummed violently, warning her that the night would not end easily.
Kael stood beside her, shadows rippling along his body as the curse fought to dominate him. His amber eyes scanned the treeline, calculating, anticipating, commanding. “Tonight isn’t about survival,” he growled, voice low and firm. “It’s about endurance. Every attack, every wave—they’re testing us. The prophecy wants to see if we’re worthy.”
Nara’s chest tightened. She had survived the first wave, but the thought of a whole night of strategic attacks sent chills d
