The Black Pines were silent now.
The Shadow King had retreated, for now, dragging Damien with him into the veil between realms. But the trees still groaned, poisoned by dark energy. The very ground still pulsed with the echo of the battle.
Selena knelt, hand pressed against the earth. It no longer felt like home.
> "They'll come back," she said. "Stronger."
Kael nodded grimly. "And next time, they'll bring the full wrath of the forgotten realm."
Selena turned to him, her eyes searching. "You said you carry a curse. What kind?"
Kael hesitated. Then he slowly pulled down the collar of his shirt, revealing a black mark etched across his chest, a spiraling rune that pulsed with unnatural energy.
> "It binds me to the shadows," he said. "Gives me control over them, but feeds off my soul each time I use it. One day… it'll take what's left."
Selena stared at him in silence.
> "Why would you make that kind of deal?"
Kael's voice dropped. "Because I was born with darkness inside me. And I chose to use it… instead of letting it consume me."
Something inside Selena stirred. Not fear, recognition.
Before she could speak, a rustle came from the trees.
Rhea emerged, breathless. Her eyes were wild.
> "Selena," she gasped. "It's the council. They've… they've issued a warrant. They've declared you rogue."
Selena froze.
> "What?
> "They claim you're consorting with darkness. With him," Rhea said, nodding toward Kael. "They've given Damien temporary command until the next full council."
Selena's blood turned to ice.
Damien had survived. Lied. Manipulated the council. And now… he was in power again.
Kael's jaw tightened. "They've played their hand."
Selena rose, her voice cold and clear.
> "Then so will I."
She looked at Rhea. "Gather those who still believe in me."
Then turned to Kael.
> "And you… teach me everything. About the curse. About the shadows. About the war I'm truly in."
Kael gave a single nod.
> "Then let this be the first night of the uprising."