KELLY THOMPSON'S POV

But the days spent in training were tinged with an undercurrent of anxiety. I could feel the shadows lurking just beyond our borders, an ever-present reminder that the Black Faes were still a threat. I often found myself glancing toward the horizon, my instincts on high alert, waiting for any sign of danger.

Then, one evening, as twilight settled over our camp, Jason and Stellan returned from their scouting mission, their expressions grave. I rushed to meet them, my heart ...