Days turned into nights, and still no sign of Lila. Our search had expanded beyond the nearby woods and into the forgotten corners of the territory. I could see the weariness lining Marcus's features, worry etched into every line on his face. But every step we took, I felt a burning need to find her, to bring her back to safety.
Ava had led search parties into the depths of the forest, exploring the places where shadows loomed the thickest. Together, we searched every nook, but Lila was nowhere to be found. And now, much to my dismay, whispers began to circulate about the witch's words: that I would be held accountable for Lila's fate.
One evening, as we returned from another fruitless expedition, I was met at the door of our home by a familiar face—Cyrus, a powerful warrior whose loyal
