The footsteps multiplied heavy, measured, and echoing with authority down the ruined corridor. For a moment, all of us sword-wielding, shadow-weaving, and one midnight-snacking child simply listened. In that heartbeat of silence, I locked eyes with Elira. She grinned, wild and bright and blood-smeared, and I knew exactly what she was thinking.
"Ready to stop playing nice?" she whispered, flexing her fingers, the air around her humming with energy.
I grinned back. "Thought you'd never ask."
Velka glanced between us, eyebrows arched. "Oh, finally. I was beginning to think you two were committed to the subtle approach." Her voice was pure sarcasm, but her eyes glittered with anticipation. She backed away a respectful step, dragging the confused child with her. "Please, don't let me get in your way."
