DARIAN

I weave through the corridors of the Haven, cloak brushing the cold stone walls. My boots echoing as I try to silence everything; his prophecy, Iris, father’s words—just push them all into the recesses of my mind.

Then I hear them.

“Darian! Wait!”

It’s Adrian’s voice, low but urgent. Kelvin’s footsteps follow. I don’t stop. I keep walking.

“Are you okay?” Adrian calls from behind.

I glance over my shoulder, brows raised. Adrian’s hands lift in mock surrender, eyes wide. He knows I don’t want this. Kelvin lags a few paces behind, tense.

“Adrian,” I say sharply. “Kelvin.”

They stop at the turn that leads to my room. I...