The sun dipped low over the horizon, casting the Knight mansion in a dusky glow. Adrianna stood by the window of Alaric's study, the weight of her lineage heavy on her shoulders but her resolve burning brighter than ever.
Zara Knight.
The name echoed in her mind like a whispered legacy. The photograph James had unearthed still sat on the table, the woman's sharp, graceful features reflected so achingly in Adrianna's own. Royal bloodline. Hunter. Protector.
Adrianna inhaled deeply, hands curling into fists at her sides. "I won't run from this," she murmured under her breath. "I won't hide. Not anymore."
Alaric's quiet footsteps entered the room behind her. She turned, meeting his gaze. There was no fear in her now — only determination.
"She was like you," Alaric said softly, motioning to the photograph. "Strong. Stubborn. Fierce. Zara never backed down from anything."