Alina's POV
Something powerful reached her.
Then it struck.
A sharp, electric jolt slammed into Alina’s ribs. The bond between her and Talia snapped fully awake, wrenching her awareness to the side with brutal force.
Alina staggered, one hand bracing against the cold stone as her vision swam. The world tilted.
Casius was there instantly, steadying her by the elbow. Their eyes met.
He knew. He’d already reported everything to Lucian the moment they’d cleared the tunnels, but this was different.
This wasn’t a command.
This was blood.
Alina needed to speak with her sister.
Being underground drained her past exhaustion. Her muscles trembled, breath shallow, lungs still burning from dust and magic residue. She planted her feet, anchored herself, and reached—pushing through until the b
