Chapter 17: A Path Forward

A Fateful Decision

Evelyne sat in silence long after Phileo had finished speaking.

The revelation of the Black Veil had shaken her, but it also explained so much—why Phileo was always so guarded, why danger followed him like a shadow.

But most of all, it made her wonder.

Who was the person he refused to kill?

It had to be someone important. Someone worth risking his own life for.

Someone worth being hunted for.

Evelyne wanted to ask. Needed to ask. But the words caught in her throat.

Instead, she exhaled. "So what now?"

Phileo glanced at her, then at Alsiel.

Alsiel stretched, looking far too relaxed given the situation. "That's the question, isn't it?" He grinned. "Personally, I think we should run. Running's always a solid plan."

Evelyne scowled. "We can't run forever."

Alsiel sighed. "Ah, you're one of those people. The ones who think standing their ground is a good idea."

"I think we should have a plan," Evelyne shot back.

Phileo rubbed his temples. "Enough."

They both fell silent.

Phileo's gaze was distant, calculating. "If Nikolai found us, the others won't be far behind."

Evelyne nodded. "And you're not going to tell me how many 'others' there are, are you?"

Phileo didn't answer.

Alsiel snorted. "Too many. Let's leave it at that."

Evelyne crossed her arms. "Then we need allies."

Alsiel raised an eyebrow. "You have some hidden in your pocket?"

She glared at him. "Phileo can't fight this alone."

Phileo didn't react.

Evelyne stepped closer. "Phileo."

He finally met her gaze.

"You saved my life," she said quietly. "And whether you like it or not, I'm involved now."

His jaw clenched.

"I won't just sit back and wait for them to come for us," she continued. "We need people we can trust."

Phileo exhaled. "There aren't many."

Alsiel smirked. "That's where I come in."

Evelyne blinked. "What?"

Alsiel stretched lazily. "Oh, I forgot to mention. I have connections."

Phileo gave him a flat look. "That's an understatement."

Alsiel winked. "I am quite resourceful."

Evelyne's stomach twisted. "Are these 'connections' trustworthy?"

Alsiel's grin widened. "Define trustworthy."

Phileo sighed. "He's reckless, but he's not a fool."

Alsiel placed a hand on his chest. "Why, thank you. I think that's the nicest thing you've ever said to me."

Evelyne ignored the exchange. "So you can find us allies?"

Alsiel's smirk remained, but his tone was serious. "I can find us something."

Phileo hesitated. Then, finally, he nodded.

Evelyne let out a slow breath. They had a plan—sort of.

But she couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning.

The past was catching up.

And soon, they would have no choice but to face it.