The first impact came before anyone could speak again.
A deep, thunderous force slammed against the outer barrier of the palace, shaking the ground beneath their feet. The walls groaned, ancient stone resisting something powerful something relentless.
Aria felt it instantly.
Not just the attack.
The intent behind it.
Her breath hitched. “…He’s not testing the defenses.”
Lucian’s expression hardened. “No.”
Another impact stronger this time.
The windows rattled violently as a low, echoing pulse rolled through the territory like a warning.
“He’s announcing himself,” Rune muttered.
Aria’s mark burned faintly.
Not painfully.
But reactively.
Like it was aware of the threat… and preparing for it.
She stepped forward slowly, her movements no longer uncertain but drawn.
Pulled.
“Ari
