As Cassia’s journey continued, her bond with Alaric deepened, though neither of them would admit it aloud. Meanwhile, Asterion served as both a guide and a comic relief, lightening tense moments with his dry humor.


    During a confrontation with a fierce shadow creature guarding an ancient artifact, Cassia discovered she had a unique ability to communicate with Lumora’s creatures. This ability, tied to the shard she had touched, hinted at a greater connection between her and this mystical realm.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    Alaric, impressed yet cautious, began to open up about his past—how he had once trusted a human who betrayed Lumora, nearly destroying the Veil. His guarded nature now made sense to Cassia, who vowed to prove she was different.


    One evening, as they prepared to face their next challenge, Alaric finally smiled—a rare, genuine moment. “You surprise me, Cassia,” he said. “You’re stronger than you look.”


    Cassia felt her cheeks flush. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”


    Their shared laughter echoed through the forest, a small beacon of light in their growing connection.