Nathan smiled with visible relief.
Elara's shoulders eased, her eyes warming with something Merlin wasn't ready to name.
Liliana wiped her eyes. Adrian clapped Merlin's back hard enough to nearly knock the air out of him. Ethan muttered something about stress-induced ulcers. Sera looked reassured. Dorian continued watching him—but now with acceptance layered over suspicion.
For the first time since entering this world, Merlin felt the threat of loneliness loosen its grip.
But peace didn't have a chance to settle.
Because just as they started walking again, a small, black envelope slipped out of Merlin's sleeve—he hadn't even realized it was there—and fluttered to the floor.
Nathan blinked. "What's that?"
Merlin froze.
His blood went cold.
Elara knelt, picking it up before he could reach.
The seal was a dark symbol—one Merlin recognized instantly, dread twisting in his gut.
The Umbershade insignia.
