Casteel stepped closer, his presence grounding. He didn't offer empty platitudes. He knew the kingdom they were entering was one built on survival and scars—a . "They will see what I see," he said, his tone turning serious. "A survivor. Someone who chose to see the truth when it would have been easier to stay blind."

"You’re thinking too loud again," Casteel remarked, his voice a low, teasing rumble that vibrated through the quiet of their camp. He stood by the fire, the orange light catching the sharp angles of his face and the gold in his eyes.

Casteel took her hand, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. "No. We’re going home. And we’ll burn down anyone who tries to stop us."