The crimson flare lingered in the night sky, staining the forest in a ghostly red. Its glow flickered across Adrian's face, sharpening the lines of his determination.
Selena stood frozen, her lips trembling. "That signal… it means the Rael family knows exactly where we are. They'll send people. Not soldiers… enforcers."
Adrian's hand brushed the scroll at his side. "Then let them send whoever they wish. I won't back down."
Selena's fingers tightened around her sleeve. "You don't understand. The Rael family doesn't summon with bloodlight unless they intend to erase someone completely. This is not a warning—it's a death sentence."
Adrian turned, meeting her wide, frightened eyes. "Then why are you still walking with me?"
The question silenced her. Her lashes lowered, and after a pause, she whispered, "Because running hasn't saved me before… and maybe, just maybe, you can."
For a moment, the weight between them was heavier than the flare overhead. Then Adrian exhaled and began walking again, his boots crunching against the dead leaves. "Stay close. If they want a fight, they'll have one."
---
The road ahead twisted, and soon, the dark outline of ancient stone walls rose before them. The Rael stronghold.
It was vast, its gates carved with markings of cranes and blades—symbols of pride and blood. Even from a distance, Adrian could feel the oppressive aura pressing down. Dozens of torches burned along the battlements, shadows of armed figures pacing like predators.
As they drew closer, a rumble echoed from within. The heavy gates creaked open, and a dozen armored men stepped out, their weapons gleaming under the red-tinged moonlight.
At their head was a tall man clad in black robes embroidered with silver threads. His gaze locked on Selena first, cold and sharp as a knife. "So the wayward daughter returns."
Selena's knees weakened, her breath catching. "Uncle…" she whispered, her voice breaking.
The man's eyes slid to Adrian, lingering on the scroll strapped to his side. A cruel smile curved his lips. "And she brings a stranger carrying what belongs to us. Brave… or foolish?"
Adrian stepped forward, his grip tightening on his blade. The air around him stirred faintly, his inner energy rising. "If you believe this scroll is yours, then come and claim it."
For a heartbeat, silence stretched. Then the uncle's laughter rang out, low and mocking, echoing into the night. He lifted his hand, and in a single gesture, the Rael enforcers drew their blades, their formation tightening like a net ready to close.
Selena's face paled. Adrian's eyes narrowed. The first clash with the Rael family had begun.