The ruins at the edge of the city had always been a place of legend. Crumbling towers, walls etched with fading runes, and collapsed stairways gave the area an air of haunted majesty. Kael led Althea through the shadows, his movements precise, almost predatory.
This place remembers," he said quietly, brushing a hand over a rune-carved wall. "Every choice, every betrayal, every act of love leaves a mark."Althea watched him, noticing how carefully he moved, how every glance carried caution. "Kael… what are you hiding?" she asked.His golden eyes darkened. "I've spent my life running—from enemies, from my mistakes, from… love. I never meant for anyone to get close to me."Her heart ached at his words. She reached for his hand. "Then let me be the one who stands with you. Even in the chaos. Even if it destroys us."Kael's defenses broke in that moment. He pulled her into his arms, their kiss a mix of desperation, longing, and a promise that could not be spoken aloud. But the ruins, silent for centuries, were not empty. Cloaked figures emerged—agents of the Nightveil, their eyes glowing faintly red.Kael's grip tightened. "Stay behind me."Althea's pulse raced, but she did not move. Her powers flared, sensing the emotions of the attackers. Fear, loyalty, aggression—they surged through her, and she turned them into a weapon, causing hesitation in their ranks. Kael fought beside her, precise, lethal, their movements perfectly in sync. When the last figure retreated, the ruins returned to silence."You are remarkable," Kael murmured, awe in his voice."And you're reckless," she teased softly, though her heart thudded in her chest. "But I suppose I like that about you."