I stumbled into the fortress. My whole body ached, and my vision was blurry. The torches made shadows dance on the stone walls like ghosts. I was breathing hard, my ribs burning. I was bleeding. Every step was a struggle.
But I had to keep going.
Celeste was waiting.
She stood at the end of the hall. She wore dark robes, and her silver hair was long and beautiful. Her calm, pale eyes looked right at me the moment I entered. She didn't look surprised or worried, just calm.
"You made it back," she said, her voice soft.
I clenched my fists. "No thanks to you."
Celeste tilted her head. "I never said it would be easy."
I felt a rush of anger. "You knew I might not survive. You always hide things from me. I'm done with your games. Give me answers now."
I took a step closer, shaking with
