Dark clouds hung heavily in the sky, leaving a shadow over the grounds of Sexton. Lanterns hanging on the lampposts burned as if they would drive away the shadow the winter had brought in.
Ruelle stood in the garden beside Dane, the chill brushing against her cheeks. Her thoughts lingered on what he had told her. She had never heard of anyone surviving corruption until now. Lucian had always seemed too composed for anyone to suspect something like that living quietly beneath his skin.
She asked softly, "What are the chances… that the corruption takes full effect, even if it is separated?"
"Considering it was our experiment that worked, it is hard to say," Dane replied. And when he noticed the look of worry on her face, he placed a gentle hand on top of her head. He smiled faintly, "Lucian's will is stronger than his corruption. He will survive."
