The dawn bled violet across the skies above the valley, casting long, silver shadows across the clearing where Aria and Caleb stood. The camp stirred slowly behind them, unaware of what the night had delivered: a warning laced in spirit fire and prophecy. The Herald’s voice still echoed in Aria’s mind—an omen layered in riddles and truth:

"The bond you treasure is not the only one sealed in fate."

Aria’s hands trembled as she touched her chest, fingertips grazing the new mark that had ...