Storm

In the wake of Kieran's retreat, the air hung heavy with the tension of victory marred by ominous foreboding. The team stood in silence, breathing heavily, their faces marked by both relief and fatigue. But in the back of Emily's mind, there was no rest, no calm. Kieran's parting words echoed in her head—a warning, a threat, and a promise all at once. She glanced at her allies. They'd been through so much together, and yet she feared the worst was still to come.

Back at the safehouse, Mara patched up Calem's wounds, working quickly but gently, her hands moving with practiced efficiency. They'd barely had a moment to breathe since the battle, and the exhaustion was beginning to show on all of them. Yet, even in their weariness, they all sensed something shifting, something ominous lurking just beyond their grasp.

"Emily," Mara called softly, breaking the silence, "we need to talk about the relic."