Eragon's POV
Eragon paced back and forth in his living room at , his dragon familiar watching him with sharp, knowing eyes.
The encounter with Ailson had left a bad taste in his mouth. He hated this game. Every word she said, every subtle advance she made, only deepened the pit in his stomach.
The plan to expose her was working, but at what cost? The line between right and wrong blurred more with each passing day, and the burden of deception weighed heavily on him.
But he had to keep going. Gloria was counting on him.
They were both counting on each other to get through this.
His phone buzzed on the table, breaking the silence. It was Gloria.
Gloria's POV
"How did it go?" Gloria's voice was calm but carried the edge of concern she couldn't hide.Eragon sighed, rubbing his temples.
"She came over. Tried to get closer again, but I shut it down before things got too far." He paused, glancing at his dragon.
"This whole thing feels wrong, Gloria. Playing with her emotions like this… it's not me.""I know," Gloria said softly.
"But it's necessary. You're doing this for the right reasons. Ailson's dangerous, and we can't let her manipulate anyone else or use her powers to hurt people.If we don't stop her, who will?
"Eragon leaned against the wall, closing his eyes. "I just don't know how much longer I can keep this up."
"You don't have to for much longer," Gloria said, her voice steadier now.
"We're close, Eragon. I've been gathering what I can, and I'm sure she's going to make her next move soon.
The council is already suspicious of her, and if we can just get solid evidence… this will all be over.
"There was a long pause before Eragon spoke again. "And what if it doesn't work? What if she catches on?"
"Then we face her together," Gloria said without hesitation.
"You're not alone in this, Eragon. I'm right here with you.
"Eragon's heart swelled at her words. Gloria had always been his anchor, the one person he could trust with everything.
He smiled despite the weight on his shoulders.
"I know. Thank you.""Get some rest," Gloria added. "We're almost there."