The city of Velmira was unlike any Kael had ever seen—not because of its size or grandeur, but because of its simplicity. There were no towering castles, no divine shrines, no oppressive rulers demanding fealty. The people lived without fear, their lives shaped by their own choices rather than the whims of gods or fate.
Kael and Lyra walked through the bustling streets, taking in the energy of the city. Merchants called out their prices, blacksmiths hammered steel, and children weaved through the crowds in carefree laughter. It was a world untouched by war, untouched by prophecy.
And yet, Kael couldn't shake the feeling that something was watching him.
It wasn't the guards or the townsfolk—who cast curious glances but quickly went about their business. It was something deeper, an unease etched into his very soul.
"You feel it too," Lyra murmured beside him. It wasn't a question.
Kael nodded. "The past isn't done with us yet."
They stopped at a tavern, its wooden sign swaying in the warm breeze. The Silver Ember, it was called. A fitting name, considering Kael's past life—a fire that should have burned out, yet still smoldered in the dark.
As they stepped inside, the scent of roasted meat and ale filled the air. Travelers and locals alike filled the space, talking in low murmurs, sharing stories over drinks.
Kael and Lyra found a table near the corner. The moment they sat, a serving girl approached with a bright smile. "Welcome to the Silver Ember. What can I get you?"
Kael hesitated. It had been so long since he had needed food or drink. The Well of Eternity had sustained him before, making hunger and exhaustion meaningless. But now, in this new world, he was human again.
He glanced at Lyra, who simply smirked. "Two of whatever's best," she told the girl.
As the girl left, Kael let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. This was real. The weight of a normal life was settling on his shoulders—and he didn't know if he feared it or welcomed it.
But before he could think further, he heard something. A name. Spoken in hushed voices at the table behind him.
A name that shouldn't exist in this world.
"Sylas Kaine."
Kael's fingers curled into a fist.
So he was here.
Lyra met his gaze, her expression sharp. She had heard it too.
The past had followed them into this new world.
And it wasn't done with them yet.