A Heart Divided

The next morning, Kael found himself unable to focus on anything but the conversation he'd overheard.

He sought out Captain Thorne, who had been growing increasingly wary of Eiran."We need to keep an eye on him," Kael said quietly, not wanting anyone else to overhear.

"He's hiding something."Thorne nodded, his expression grim.

"I've had my suspicions for a while, sire. If he's working with the enemy, we'll find out soon enough."

But Kael wasn't so sure anymore. Eiran's words had sounded too conflicted, too full of emotion.

Could a spy or traitor show that much pain?His heart warred with his mind. He needed to confront Eiran directly, but the fear of what he might discover held him back.

That evening, as he stood in the war room reviewing battle plans, Eiran entered. The tension between them was palpable, but Kael couldn't wait any longer.

"We need to talk," Kael said, his voice firm.Eiran's eyes flickered, but he said nothing, waiting.

"I overheard you last night," Kael admitted, watching Eiran's reaction closely. "You said something about the curse—and a key. What aren't you telling me?"Eiran's face paled, and for a moment, Kael thought he might deny everything.

But instead, Eiran sighed, running a hand through his silver hair."You weren't supposed to hear that," he said softly.

"But I suppose you deserve the truth."Kael's heart pounded in his chest as Eiran met his gaze.

"The curse on your family—it's tied to a lock," Eiran explained. "A lock that seals away something far more dangerous than any spell. I've been searching for the key to break it, but…" He hesitated, his voice faltering.

"If I tell you more, everything changes."Kael took a step closer, his voice barely a whisper.

"Tell me."Eiran looked at him for a long moment, and then, with a pained expression, he said, "The curse isn't just magic, Kael.

It's tied to me. To my blood."