(Solomon's POV)
Freedom is beautiful.
Until you witness the pain that comes with it.
The Beginning of Release
The cavern had become silent.
Not because the shadows were calm.
Because they were waiting.
Thousands of fragmented souls hung suspended within the silver network surrounding us.
Watching.
Listening.
Hoping.
And at the center of everything stood Mirabel.
Barely able to remain upright.
Her breathing was uneven.
Blood stained her chin.
Yet somehow her eyes burned brighter than ever.
Alaric stood opposite her.
For the first time since we'd met him, the ancient architect looked uncertain.
Not afraid.
Not weak.
Uncertain.
As though he had reached a moment he had never truly believed would come.
"Are you ready?" he asked quietly.
Mirabel wiped blood from her lips.
