The forest path was narrow, weaving between twisted roots and thick undergrowth. Lantern-light flickered against the trees as Jane led the way, her metal hand adjusting the strap of her pack. The night was still, but she couldn't shake the weight of eyes on them even though she knew it was just nerves.
Behind her, Levi walked in silence, wings folded tight against her back, her gaze ever sharp. She looked almost regal even now, dirt smudging her cheek and weariness pulling at her frame. Every step carried the quiet authority of someone who had once commanded legions.
"Are you sure this way is safe?" Jane asked at last, her voice breaking the silence.
Levi's golden eyes swept the path ahead. "No path is safe. But safer than the open roads."
Jane let out a breath, half a laugh, half a sigh. "Comforting."
For a while, the only sound was the crunch of boots and the faint hum of insects. Then Levi's voice cut through, low and unexpected.
"You never asked why I stayed with you."
Jane glanced back, frowning. "I didn't think I had the right."
Levi tilted her head, shadows shifting across her sharp features. "Most would have abandoned me. I am hunted. Feared. Reviled by history itself. Yet you stayed."
Jane slowed her steps, her heart tightening at the queen's tone. "Because I don't believe in history. Not the way it's written. I saw you in that chamber, Levi. You weren't a monster—you were alone."
Levi's wings shifted, the faintest tremor of emotion slipping past her guarded exterior. "Alone is the fate of demons."
Jane stopped walking, turning fully to face her. "Not anymore."
The words hung between them, heavier than steel.
Levi's gaze softened, her golden eyes catching the lantern light like molten fire. Slowly, almost reluctantly, she reached out. Her fingertips brushed against Jane's wrist—metal meeting flesh where her false arm joined.
"I do not deserve such faith," Levi whispered.
"Maybe not," Jane admitted, her voice gentle. "But you have it anyway."
For a moment, the forest seemed to hush around them, the air holding still as if listening. Then, Levi withdrew her hand, wings folding tighter around her shoulders.
"Come," she said softly, though her voice carried an unfamiliar warmth. "The night is not kind to those who linger."
Jane nodded, and they continued together, step for step.
Neither of them saw the raven perched high in the trees above, black eyes glinting as it took flight—vanishing into the night, back toward the hunters.
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