Chapter 36
The wind moved across the mountain.
Dozens of eyes were on Ariana.
Dragons above.
Vampires to one side.
Witches on the other.
Different bloodlines stood across the cliff, watching her carefully.
Measuring her.
Waiting.
Ariana felt the pressure in her chest.
Not fear.
But weight.
This was different from battle.
This was judgment.
The witch woman took another step forward.
"Show us," she repeated calmly.
Kael stepped slightly closer to Ariana.
His voice was low.
"You do not have to prove anything."
Ariana glanced at him.
"I know."
Then she looked back at the group in front of her.
"But if I do not… they will never stop watching."
Kael did not argue.
Because he knew she was right.
Cassian stood quietly, observing everything.
The witch folded her hands behind her back.
"We are not your enemies," she said.
"Not yet."
Kael let out a small breath.
"That is comforting."
The witch ignored him.
Her eyes stayed on Ariana.
