Rory's POV

The sound of steel slicing through the night snapped me awake.

Moonlight spilled across the courtyard, silver and sharp, casting long shadows. My heart thudded painfully when I saw them two figures circling each other, blades gleaming.

“Stop this!” My voice tore through the silence, but neither listened.

Kael lunged first, fire sparking across his blade. Lucien parried, shadows curling around his arm like serpents. Sparks burst where their swords clashed, painting the night ...