Enemies rarely wait politely outside your door.
Four hours after training. Four hours of forced rest while my body recovered from energy depletion. Four hours lying in my quarters trying to process everything that had happened.
The surveillance. The spy. The exposed abilities. The vulnerability now visible to anyone looking.
Through the bond, Darius sent his constant presence. He was nearby. Not in my quarters but close. Maintaining connection while giving me space to actually rest.
You should sleep, he sent.
Can't. Too much to process. Too much danger.
Danger doesn't care if you're rested. Get stronger or get dead. Those are the options.
He was right. But sleep felt like luxury we couldn't afford. Not when enemies knew our weaknesses. Not when every moment of unconsciousness was opportunity for attack.
My wolf stirred. Restless. Alert despite physical exhaustion.
