Kaelen's POV
I climbed out of the vehicle first, letting the sharp night air fill my lungs. The cold bite helped clear the fog in my head. Behind me, I heard Lyra stirring in the backseat. I turned and extended my hand to her, pulling her gently from the car. Her fingers were delicate in mine, but there was strength there too. She never let anything break her completely.
Our footsteps echoed on the gravel driveway as we approached Ironfang's main house. Golden light spilled from the windows, casting warm rectangles across the dark lawn. This place had always been my sanctuary, but tonight it felt different. Heavy with the weight of secrets I couldn't yet voice and fears I couldn't shake.
The second vehicle pulled up behind us, headlights sweeping across the stone facade before going dark. I watched Benedict step out first, followed by Seraphina, and finally Genevieve.
