Kael’s POV

The symbol burned in my mind. Crescent and dagger, an old enemy’s mark carved into our border trees. The Hollow Claw was supposed to be extinct. Yet the scent around that tree was fresh. I stood in the war room, hands flat on the cold stone table, while Rhian paced behind me. “They’re probing us,” she muttered.

She gave me a look. “You haven’t been sleeping. You haven't been present. You’ve been chasing shadows. Or watching Mira chase hers.” I didn’t respond. I ...