The echoes of the figure's ominous words hung heavy in the air, the alley now eerily silent, save for the distant hum of magic still crackling around them. Ariana's hands shook slightly as she lowered them from the barrier she had helped to reinforce, the power still buzzing beneath her skin like an electric current. Her heart pounded in her chest, a mixture of fear and adrenaline coursing through her veins.

Dorian stood beside her, his eyes sharp as he scanned the empty alley, searching for any sign of movement. But the threat had vanished, leaving nothing but the lingering sense of unease.