The Obsidian Keep

Seraphine drifted in and out of consciousness, her body sluggish, her mind clouded. The world around her rocked and swayed—movement. She was being transported.

When she forced her eyes open, she found herself inside a carriage, bound at the wrists with thick leather straps. The windows were shuttered, allowing only slivers of moonlight to slip through. The air was cold, carrying the scent of damp stone and distant rain.

"You're awake."

Veylan's voice sent a shiver through her. He sat across from her, relaxed, as if this were merely an evening ride through the city and not an abduction. His golden eyes glowed faintly in the dim light.

"Where are you taking me?" she rasped, her throat dry.

A slow smile curled his lips. "Home."

Seraphine stiffened. "What do you mean?"

"You'll see soon enough."

The journey continued for what felt like hours. The further they traveled, the rougher the path became. They were moving away from the capital, away from Kaelith.

When the carriage finally stopped, Veylan opened the door and stepped out first. He reached back in, undoing her bindings before gripping her wrist.

"Don't try to run," he murmured. "It would be... unfortunate."

Seraphine yanked her hand back, but he merely sighed and pulled her out.

She stumbled as her feet met uneven ground.

Before her, rising against the stormy sky, was a towering fortress of black stone. The structure loomed like a forgotten ruin, its jagged spires piercing the heavens. Flames flickered in the watchtowers, but no banners flew.

The Obsidian Keep.

Seraphine's stomach twisted. She had read about this place—whispers of a fortress hidden beyond the cursed mountains, where ancient enemies of the crown once gathered.

"Why bring me here?" she demanded.

Veylan's grip on her tightened. "Because you have a part to play, Seraphine. And it's time you remembered where you truly belong."

A wave of unease washed over her.

The heavy iron gates groaned open.

With nowhere to run, she stepped inside.