Soon after, Kael receives a summons—Elira is to return to the capital. Rumors swirl that the King plans to marry her off to a southern lord to forge an alliance.
Kael's jaw clenches at the news. Elira, however, is eerily calm.
"I'll go," she says. "But not as the dumb princess."
That night, she ventures into the ancient catacombs beneath the Northern keep and calls the last of the Elemental Kings—Umbra, King of Shadow.
He emerges like smoke and starlight, cautious but intrigued. Shadow, unlike the others, asks for a price.
"If I give you my gift, you will lose something."
"I've already lost everything once," she says. "I'll risk it."
He places a dark mark on her back—a reminder that power always comes with sacrifice. Her senses sharpen. Secrets become visible. Lies, transparent.
When she returns to the hall, she overhears nobles plotting to capture her for her powers. She smiles coldly for the first time.
"Let them try."
Kael watches her, equal parts proud and afraid. "You've changed."
"So have you," she replies. "You don't hide your eyes when you look at me anymore."