Aldric began the training two nights after their first meeting. He arrived through the hidden passage behind the library, wearing the same old robe and carrying a small leather satchel filled with stones, herbs, and parchment. Mira followed him, carrying a bowl of silver dust mixed with water.

Liora waited inside the chamber with a steady look. She had not slept well since the vision returned — flashes of Draven’s eyes glowing red and chains breaking around him. She didn’t tell him ...