The morning sun had barely touched the horizon when I slipped out of my cabin. Crescent Vale was waking slowly. Wolves patrolled the borders, scouts searching for rogue followers. Children played quietly near the rebuilt homes. The camp seemed calm, but I knew better.
I carried the relic from the vault, wrapped in soft cloth. Its silver-blue glow pulsed faintly against my palm. The mark on my wrist throbbed in response, reminding me of its power…and the danger it posed.
Jax leaned against the half-built ruins, expression half amused, half concerned. “You’re up early. And serious.”
I gave a tired smile. “I need to practice. Understand it.”
Hazel emerged from the trees, carrying herbs and parchment. “Focus, calm, control. Otherwise, it controls you.”
I nodded. We moved to a secluded are
