She walked the corridors later with Magnus, the quiet spaces between torchlight offering room for easier conversation.
He spoke of Stormborn's own challenges after past threats, the way alliances had strengthened them rather than weakened. His words carried experience without arrogance.
She appreciated how he saw the larger picture while respecting her leadership of Frostfang.
The connection between them felt natural, built on mutual respect and the shared work of recent weeks. Not rushed, not forced. Simply present.
They paused near the healing halls where Elara still worked late. Her sister looked exhausted but determined, moving between cots with gentle hands. The sight reminded Lila of the different ways they all contributed.
Elara's compassion healed what blades could not. Thorne's energy pushed boundaries. Her own careful planning held the center. They were stronger as one.
