Kael's mind raced as he tried to piece together who might have left the ominous note in his house. The shadow, the words, the mystery—they were all tied together. Determined to uncover the truth, he reached out to the silver threads, hoping to see the moment the note was left.
But before he could grasp one, a knock interrupted him.
Knock, knock.
The sound startled him, sharp and out of place in the silence of his crumbling home. His fingers tensed as he stuffed the note into his jacket. He approached the door cautiously, his mind jumping to the worst.
"Who's there?" he called out, his voice firm, but his heart pounded with anticipation. Was it the person who left the note? If so, he was ready—ready to fight, to kill if necessary.
Before he could open the door, a familiar voice called from the other side.
"Kael? Are you okay? This is the first time I've seen you at home in ages! What's going on?"
It was Aelina.
Her voice carried a hint of fear, as though she already knew something was wrong. Kael hesitated before opening the door.
"No, no, I'm alright," he said, forcing calm into his voice. "Just... by myself, thinking about what changes I can make here."
He opened the door, letting her in.
"Thanks for having me," she said softly, a sad smile on her face.
Kael's eyes narrowed. "Why are you saying that? You know I'm alone here, in this cursed house," he said, frustration creeping into his tone.
"Don't say that," Aelina replied firmly. "I said it because I have respect for your parents. You know that."
Kael sighed, the anger leaving his face. "Alright, alright, princess. Say what you want. But don't you get into trouble for being here? You know how your parents are."
"Don't worry," Aelina said with a small laugh. "They're just mad because you haven't visited them in forever. That's the real problem, you know!"
Kael smirked faintly. "Okay, I promise I'll come visit soon. But first, why are you here at this hour? It's late, Aelina."
Aelina's smile faded slightly. She hesitated before speaking, her tone more serious.
"Because... I wanted to tell you something. It's very important," she said, her voice trembling slightly.
Kael's expression hardened as he stared at her, searching her face for answers. "What is it?"
Aelina took a deep breath, bracing herself for what she was about to say.