Lyra's POV
The heavy door crashed shut as Kaelen stormed out. The sound reverberated through the stone chamber like thunder. My pulse hammered against my ribs from the intense confrontation we'd just endured.
I remained motionless, drawing slow breaths, attempting to make sense of everything that had transpired in these last few minutes.
A rustling sound came from behind me. The whisper of cloth dragging across cold stone. I spun around.
Silas was struggling to his feet. His movements were labored and uncertain. One palm pressed flat against the floor for support while the other clutched his temple. When his hand fell away, crimson streaks painted his fingers.
He wavered there momentarily, eyes fixed on the ground. His frame was bent with exhaustion. Each breath came in harsh gasps.
Then his gaze found mine.
"What made you intervene on my behalf?" His words were gravelly and worn. "I've done nothing but antagonize you from the moment you set foot in this territory."
