The night pressed in as they moved deeper into the narrow alley, the dim streetlights flickering as if they could sense the unnatural forces at play. Ariana's steps faltered as a strange pulse of energy rippled through the air, brushing against her skin like a warning. She exchanged a brief glance with Dorian, but his expression remained unreadable—calm and focused, like nothing could surprise him.

He gestured ahead with a tilt of his head. "We're close."