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ANNALISE

I needed to see Sumel. The thought consumed me as I paced the small apartment where Molu had brought us. I felt the weight of everything resting on my shoulders, and I knew that Sumel’s strength could make a difference in our fight.

“Can you take me to him?” I asked Molu, my voice steady but filled with urgency.

Molu nodded, his expression serious. “Of course. Follow me.”

As we walked through the ancient corridors, I felt a strange mix of hope and fear. Sumel had always been a source of wisdom and strength. But the last time I saw him, he had been weakened by Marcus’s darkness. I had to believe that I could help him.

When we reached the small chamber where Sumel rested, my heart sank. He lay on a simple bed, his face pale and drawn. The flickering candlelight cast shadows over him, making him look even more fragile.

“Sumel,” I whispered, moving closer to his side.

His eyes fluttered open, and a faint smile crossed his lips. “Annalise,” he breathed, his voice barely above a