**ATTICUS**
Grey Hollow lives up to its name, because the town sits low and quiet like it has learned not to draw attention to itself, buildings spaced too far apart and roads winding in ways that feel intentional rather than accidental, and the moment we cross the boundary I can feel every warrior with us tense in the same way. This place knows what it hides, and it does not welcome intrusion.
Axel is silent beside me as we move, his focus narrowed to a sharp, controlled line that I recognise too well, because it is the same focus he carries into battle when there is no room left for mercy. The bond between us hums tight and restless, threaded with Bella’s absence like an open wound that refuses to scab over, and every mile closer feels heavier than the last.
We do not need to search l
