The palace corridors felt different today. Guards whispered in corners, Grisha practiced quietly, and the air was thick with tension. Politics and power struggles were subtle weapons here—more dangerous than any Volcra. I stayed close to Alina, red eyes scanning, dreadlocks shifting slightly with every step. Shadows remained dormant, coiled inside me, waiting for the right moment.
"Do you think they're watching us?" Alina asked, voice low, golden light flickering slightly.
"They always are," I said calmly. "Focus on your training. I'll keep you safe."
We entered a training hall where higher-ranking Grisha were already practicing. Zoya moved with controlled precision, lightning arcing between her hands. Genya's illusions danced with effortless grace, designed to test perception and reflexes. Both glanced at me, their expressions curious. I returned a neutral nod, noting everything—skills, reactions, and subtle attention.
Alina stiffened when I spoke to Genya about a maneuver, answering her question politely. Her sunlight pulsed faintly, cheeks pink. Already flustered, I thought. I didn't comment; humor would wait until danger passed. My focus remained on keeping her safe, guiding her movements, and ensuring she controlled her power without exhaustion.
Later, Zoya approached during a sparring exercise. Her lightning flickered faintly in casual arcs as she watched me coach Alina. "You're really careful with her," she said.
"Yes," I replied seriously. "She's learning to control something dangerous. I can't risk mistakes."
Alina's glow flared faintly again, jaw tightening, subtle but obvious. I ignored it for now—training came first.
By midday, I had helped Alina through her exercises, guiding her hands during controlled bursts of sunlight and adjusting her stance when she faltered. Shadows remained coiled, waiting.
During a brief break, both Genya and Zoya lingered nearby, casual smiles on their faces. Alina noticed immediately, cheeks pink, light flickering. "You… don't need to spend so much time talking to them," she muttered quietly.
I nodded calmly. "Politeness is necessary. Nothing more," I said, keeping tone serious. Humor stayed tucked away.
Evening fell, and the palace quieted. Alina leaned against the railing, golden glow softening as she exhaled. "Thanks… Zac," she murmured.
I let a faint grin appear. "We made it through another day," I said lightly, teasing only slightly now. "And I'd say you're improving fast."
Her laughter was soft, light flickering. Shadows dormant, light controlled, the day survived. Genya and Zoya had noticed me, subtly attentive, and I filed it away for the future. The palace had intrigue, testing, and subtle games—but my focus remained clear: keep Alina safe, train her properly, and wait for the moment the Fold, the Darkling, and the shadows demanded my full attention.