The silence left after the battle felt more oppressive than the sound of explosions earlier.
The wind blew again across Shadowlands, yet it no longer carried the scent of battle.
Instead… a warning.
Aurelia still stood in the same spot.
Her eyes fixed on the crack in the ground that had now closed.
As if nothing had ever happened.
But the lingering energy.
Was still palpable.
Deep.
Dangerous.
And… alive.
"He retreated."
Kael's voice was soft beside her.
Aurelia did not turn around.
"Not because he was defeated."
Kael nodded.
"No."
He crossed his arms.
"He's just… not finished yet."
Ragnar walked closer, rubbing his shoulder which was still slightly stiff.
"Then next time we make sure he can't escape."
His tone was light.
But his eyes were sharp.
Orion stood a few steps behind.
His gaze still directed toward the horizon.
"He is no ordinary creature."
He said softly.
"And he is not part of the Wraith army."
Aurelia finally turned around.
"Then what is he?"
