ARIA’S POV

The first sensation I experienced was cold. But it wasn't the typical winter chill or rain; it was a deeper, more personal feeling that seemed to reside just beneath my skin.

I slowly opened my eyes to the gentle glow of pale light bathing the stone walls around me. The ceiling arched gracefully overhead, decorated with symbols that shimmered softly in the warm light of a hundred flickering candles. Their flames danced lightly, as if they were breathing, creating a peaceful and ...