The night was deceptively calm, but Aria felt the storm raging beneath its stillness. The crown had awakened, the bond between her and the triplets burned brighter than ever, and yet—nothing about their journey had become easier. In fact, every step forward only seemed to uncover new shadows waiting to drag them down.
They had returned to the Flameborn Court after their victory at Hollow Fang, expecting relief, perhaps a temporary reprieve. Instead, the Court thrummed with unease. Soldiers sharpened their blades more aggressively than usual. The air stank of tension. Even the walls, glowing faintly with the old runes of the Flameborn, seemed restless.
Aria tightened her cloak around her shoulders as she stood on the terrace, watching torchlights flicker across the lower courtyards. She could feel Tobias's presence behind her even before he spoke.
"You're still awake," he murmured, stepping closer. His eyes caught the firelight—amber burning with quiet protectiveness.
