POV Riven
If there was one thing I'd learned during my years of questionable friendship with Elyzara Thorne, it was that trouble never came alone. It usually arrived escorted by chaos, drama, and occasionally a well-meaning but overly enthusiastic Aria.
Today had all three.
I stood beside Aria in the shadowed alcove of the southern wing, watching Mara and Elira discuss our next move with quiet, measured intensity. Mara leaned casually against the stone wall, while Elira paced back and forth, her silver eyes flashing with a mix of annoyance and genuine concern. Watching them strategize was strangely reassuring, like observing two generals planning a siege.
Aria elbowed me gently in the ribs. "Stop staring, you look suspicious."
I scowled at her. "You're invisible half the time, and I look suspicious?"
She shrugged cheerfully, adjusting the glittery pendant around her neck. "It's my brand. Invisible and fabulous."
