CHAPTER 12:FLAMES AND FATES

The Veilwood burned.

Seraphina ran, her breath ragged, her heart hammering. The once-protective forest now cracked and groaned, consumed by Aldric's unnatural fire. Blackened flames devoured ancient trees, the ground splitting apart as magic unraveled.

Kael ran beside her, sword in hand, his expression grim. "We can't outrun this forever."

Seraphina's chest tightened. They had fled long enough. Her father would never stop hunting them.

She glanced at the burning trees, the distant shouts of soldiers, and the dark magic staining the air.

No more running.

"We make our stand here."

Kael stopped, staring at her. "What?"

Seraphina's eyes burned with determination. "This isn't just a forest—it's alive. It tried to protect us. And now it's dying because of me." She turned to face the flames. "I won't run anymore."

Kael studied her for a long moment. Then, with a slow nod, he gripped his sword tighter.

"Then let's finish this."

The wind howled as the battle began.

To Be Continued…