Chapter 54 — Echoes of the Veil
For the first time since claiming the Obsidian Throne, Cairis and Liora escaped the fortress.
They slipped away under the cover of night with only a small, trusted escort that remained at a respectful distance. No court, no bickering factions, no veiled threats — just the two of them and the volcanic landscape they now ruled.
Cairis led them to a secluded obsidian plateau overlooking a wide river of slow-flowing lava. The heat rose in shimmering waves, painting the night sky in deep oranges and reds. Ancient ruins of a forgotten temple stood nearby, half-crumbled but peaceful. It was one of the few places near the capital untouched by recent battles.
They made camp simply — a circle of shadow wards, thick furs spread over warm stone, and a small fire that burned with violet flame. For once, there were no guards hovering nearby.
