~Shadows at the Gate~

CALISTA

When I opened my eyes the next morning, my body felt like it had been crushed by a mountain. Every breath burned, every movement sent sparks of pain shooting through me.

The faint smell of herbs and smoke filled the room. I blinked slowly, realizing I was in Elrich’s quarters—the one place no one dared to enter without his permission.

He sat in the corner, half-asleep but still alert. His elbows rested on his knees, his head tilted forward slightly. He ...