Ivy’s POV
The wind at Blackwood always smells like pine and smoke. Like something old. Like a warning.
I stand at the edge of the training yard, watching the others spar. Their movements are sharp, practiced. The sound of blades clashing echoes against the trees. I try to focus, but something feels off. Like I’m standing on the edge of something I can’t see.
Kiernan glances at me from across the yard. His expression is unreadable, but I know he’s watching. He always is. I pretend not to notice and turn my attention back to Ronan.
He’s moving too fast for the boy he’s paired with. A blur of strength and control. He doesn’t smile when he wins. He doesn’t gloat. He just helps the other kid up and nods once.
That’s how Ronan is.
Always the leader. Always the rule.
Elias joins me after a
