Leo's POV
The air around Shadowcrest territory carries the wrong scent.
Death and terror have seeped into the bark of every tree, drowning out the comforting smell of my homeland. I move through the dense brush with calculated steps, my body low and my footfalls soundless against the frozen earth. Silver moonbeams cut through the canopy above, illuminating shifting forms in the darkness ahead.
Everything feels off. Dangerous.
I have no business being here. But that box cannot remain in Lewis's hands.
He would never have stolen it unless it held the key to everything. He understands it represents Helena's last hope for survival.
Whatever secrets lie within that container will bring this nightmare to an end, though perhaps not in the manner Lewis envisions.
The main house looms ahead through the trees, every window black as coal, not a single guard visible at their designated positions.
