The sun wasn't so much shining as it was just hanging in the sky like a glowing piece of metal. The air was heavy with dust and the smell of scorched earth. In this chaos, where every day could be the last, I thought nothing could surprise me anymore. But then she appeared.

Her steps were light, yet confident. I was sitting with my back against the cold concrete, watching her pass by. There was no fawning, no fear in her. Only a quiet strength that pulled me in.

I watched her talk to the General, how she looked at those around her—perceptive and without unnecessary emotion. Something within me responded to that. I subtly shifted my gaze to my right palm. The scar near my thumb seemed particularly noticeable. I ran my finger over it, remembering how demon blood had been seared into my skin.

When she was sent to join us, she walked up, and our eyes met. I had expected to see curiosity or wariness, but there was nothing of the sort. Just a steady, calm gaze.

"Lane," - I said quietly, nodding in her direction. It was my greeting, short and without extra words. Let her decide for herself how to take it. In the end, I didn't need her expectations. I only needed her. And I knew that for her, I would again say what she wanted to hear.