the cloak of midnight, the city seemed to hush -

smelled of ink and age. The rain had followed them there, tappi

s flickered across her bare shoulders, the soft curve of her collarbone glowing in the fireligh

ispered, her voice tr

oice low and sure. "You're not runnin

longing too long suppressed. Elara turned, her eyes burning as they locked with his.

h was a vow. Her hands ran through his hair as his arms wrapped tightly around her, pulling he

d them but breath and skin. The world outside faded - no threats, n

resting on his chest, she whispered, "If they c

ing his hold. "You're mine now, Elara.

a promise was made. Not just of love-but of battle,