The light that filtered through the high windows illuminated the hallway with a serene warmth, casting soft shadows over the ancient stone. It marked the path that Eren and Lissana walked unhurriedly, aware that each step brought them closer to Tarik... and to a point of no return.
Neither of them spoke.
There was no need. Their hands remained intertwined, firm, like a silent agreement to stay together even when fear tried to break through. Lissana felt Eren’s pulse under her fingers, steady and determined. That heartbeat gave her strength.
As they turned the last corner, they saw them.
Cassiel leaned against one of the columns flanking the entrance, arms crossed and gaze lowered, as if mentally reviewing every possibility, every risk. Upon noticing them, he looked up. His eyes first s
