Outside the kingdom of the Dark Lord
"That's Kahdijah," Adam said casually as Merlin and Morgana stepped through the gate behind him. He gestured toward her like he was introducing a family member at a reunion. "My best friend. Try not to annoy her too much. She's got a short fuse with strangers."
Kahdijah crossed her arms and gave Merlin a quick once-over. Then her gaze shifted to Morgana. She didn't ask who they were or why they were there. She just nodded once, a small acknowledgment that felt heavier than any greeting.
Adam's eyes moved past them.
He stopped.
He looked at Bolt.
Then he leaned forward slightly, his head tilting like a dog hearing a strange sound.
"You," Adam said slowly. There was something different in his voice now. Less casual. More focused. "You look familiar."
Bolt blinked. "We just met. Like, two minutes ago."
Adam narrowed his eyes. He studied Bolt's face like he was trying to read fine print without glasses.
