Rune blinked at her speed, but Vaelen only inclined his head, a glimmer of approval in his eyes.
"Then it is decided." He raised his hand, and a glowing orb of silver and blue appeared between his palms. "This will lead you to the Heartstone. But beware—the path is not merely dangerous. It is cursed. Many have tried before you. None returned."
Grace reached out, the orb settling lightly into her hand, pulsing in rhythm with her heartbeat.
"I'm not them," she said.
"No," Vaelen agreed, a small, knowing smile curving his lips. "You are something far greater."
Later, as they stood outside the Citadel, Rune leaned closer to her, voice low.
"You really would have agreed to anything, wouldn't you?"
Grace shrugged, spinning the orb lightly in her palm. "I said as long as it didn't contradict my beliefs."
Rune chuckled under his breath. "Good thing you didn't add 'within reason'."
Grace smiled, fierce and bright. "We have a relic to find. And a Veil to heal."
