Chapter 38
The portal glowed in the sky, bright and steady. The light looked calm, but Ariana could feel the power inside it. It made the air feel sharp, like something was waiting on the other side, watching and aware of her presence. She stood at the edge of the cliff, staring at it, knowing there was no turning back this time. No more running. No more hiding.
Behind her, the mountain had gone quiet again. Dragons stood across the cliffs, their massive bodies still but alert, their eyes following her every movement. Even without speaking, their presence felt like silent support, steady and watchful.
Kael stepped closer beside her. "You really plan to go through that."
Ariana kept her gaze on the portal. "Yes." Kael crossed his arms. "You know it's a bad idea."
"I know."
"They can trap you."
"I know."
Kael exhaled slowly, his expression tightening. "You're not making this easy." Ariana finally turned to him. "I'm not trying to."
