C78 WHISPERS FROM THE CRIMSON QUEEN

That night, the fire crackled softly, making Damon's jaw look like gold as he quietly polished his blade. The sound of metal hitting stone was slow, steady, and anchoring.

Elara sat with her knees pulled up to her chest and watched him from across the fire. Every flicker of flame made his eyes dance, and even though his face was calm, she could see that he was upset.

Since daybreak