Chapter 37: Chains Beneath the Halo - 3
Rain whispered on the ruined stone roof like a lullaby sung through broken teeth.
The others had curled into their places again—reluctantly, tensely.
Zeraka still claimed Rein's right side, one arm slung across his chest with faux-sleeping possessiveness.
Valaithe leaned her back against his, quietly humming something old and off-key. Elaris took her usual post at the wall, ever-vigilant.
And Caelia... sat apart.
Near the fallen pews.
Alone.
Not exiled, not forced—but separated by something heavier than space.
Rein watched her from the fire's edge.
She sat straight-backed, rainwater beading across her armor in fine rivulets. Her posture was pristine, ritual-perfect.
But her left shoulder sagged slightly—just enough for someone watching closely to catch.