Kael’s POV

The night had barely ended when the alarm quieted. The intruder was gone, leaving tracks that led nowhere and signs that meant too much. I dismissed the men before dawn, their questions unanswered, their loyalty uncertain. Mira remained behind, silent, watching the horizon darken instead of brighten. The silence between us carried more truth than any report.

Cyrus waited near the gate. He asked if the threat was over. I said yes, knowing it wasn’t. He looked toward Mira but said ...