LUCIAN
The sun is dropping low when I get a message from Theron. Found something. That’s all it says. No explanation, no details. I leave the council archives without a word to anyone, my boots hitting the stone steps fast, and my chest tight. This could be the first real lead since the portal incident.
Leah’s back in our suite, resting after her training with her mother. It still feels weird to call Queen Reyna her mother. But if they're going to get close anytime soon. I have to do my part.
She looked drained when I left, her hair’s damp with sweat, eyes heavy but stubborn. She still doesn’t know I’ve kept working on the case in the background. I tell myself it’s to protect her from stress. Truth is, I’m not ready to see her face if the trail leads nowhere.
Theron’s waiting for
