The dawn bled violet across the skies above the valley, casting long, silver shadows across the clearing where Aria and Caleb stood. The camp stirred slowly behind them, unaware of what the night had delivered: a warning laced in spirit fire and prophecy. The Herald's voice still echoed in Aria's mind—an omen layered in riddles and truth:
"The bond you treasure is not the only one sealed in fate."
Aria's hands trembled as she touched her chest, fingertips grazing the new mark that had appeared overnight—an ethereal crescent moon etched above her heart. It pulsed faintly, glowing every time Caleb came near. And he was near now, stepping quietly beside her, his warmth a balm against the morning chill.
He didn't speak. He didn't need to.
Aria turned toward him, her throat tight. "That mark… it's part of the Soul Mirror, isn't it?"
Caleb's eyes softened. "It's not a curse. It's a conduit."
She frowned. "A conduit to what?"
