Storm's POV
Azanlin saw me.
He was supposed to ignore me. That was not the plan. Blend into the background. Observe quietly. Report back. But the way his gaze locked onto me from across the courtyard? That was in the plan.
"You," he said, his voice laced with curiosity and something darker. "Who are you?"
I dipped my head slightly, masking the thrill that danced along my spine. "My name is Staria" I lied smoothly, using the alias the Spirit World had forged for me.
His eyes scanned my face, then traveled lower. "New to the Forge Kingdom?"
"Just arrived," I replied. "Looking for work."
Azanlin's eyes narrowed. "You're not just anyone."
"And neither are you," I said, letting my lips curve into a calculated smile. "But we all wear masks, don't we?"
He tilted his h
