Chapter 21: The Redemption Arc

The crackling firelight flickered over Alaric’s face, casting deep shadows that made his expression unreadable. The forest around us was silent, save for the occasional rustle of leaves in the night breeze.

We were sitting in the heart of the ruins, where the ancient altar lay broken and scattered, a testament to the battle that had just taken place. I could still feel the remnants of dark magic in the air, a heavy presence that lingered like a bad memory.

Gideon lay nearby, his breathing shallow but steady. He was still recovering from the brutal attack by the resurrected werewolf ancestor. I had managed to heal his worst wounds, but the strain on his body was evident.

Every time I glanced at him, guilt gnawed at my insides. This was all because of me—because I hadn’t been able to stop Alaric sooner.

I turned my gaze back to Alaric, who sat across from me, staring into the flames. His eyes, once burning with hatred and ambition, were now filled with something I hadn’t expected