Memories of war

Aria's Pov

The heat of the early morning run still clung to my skin as Kaine and I shifted back to our human forms. My muscles ache pleasantly from the exertion, and I could feel my heart still pounding with joy. We found ourselves at the edge of the forest, beneath the sprawling branches of an ancient oak tree. Before us loomed the imposing silhouette of Banes Academy - my soon-to-be home for the next four years.

I sank down onto the cool grass, leaning back against the sturdy trunk. Kaine settled beside me, his presence both comforting and electrifying. I was acutely aware of how close he sat, our shoulders nearly touching.

Davina was glowing again inside me after our night in the cabin. I felt my body and mind relax for the first time in the last ten days.

"Look, King," I said, gesturing towards the school grounds. "What's going on over there?"