DREVINA HUMAN REALM

{"He looked at me like I was a memory come to life, something beautiful, and maybe dangerous." —Morkai Vaelan}

The Moonfire Hall felt smaller than usual, not by size but in patience. My voice echoed off marble and crystal, low and steady, like the pull of an undertow. "We are departing Fae lands." Gasps bloomed across the gathered court like startled birds.

Even the golden-robed ministers, experts in stillness and control, could not fully hide their unease. Tharion stood beside me, armoured and silent, his presence as sharp as any blade I had ever wielded. He said nothing, but the coiled tension in his frame spoke volumes. Lord Ardanis rose from the high dais, lips pursed. "You'd leave now?" he asked, voice cool. "With the realms in flux? The Fae court cannot afford your absence, Sovereign."

I met his eyes. "The sea calls, and I need to find out what is happening.