Chapter 2 - The Flesh Beneath the Vessel
Adrian’s breath caught in his throat as the remaining marble shell disintegrated like dry ash. Elara fell forward, her body weak and shivering. Adrian caught her before she hit the cold floor, wrapping his arms around her frail form.
She was alive. Her skin was deathly pale, covered in gray dust and faint, glowing runic lines that slowly faded into her flesh. She coughed violently, clutching at Adrian’s linen shirt with trembling fingers.
"Elara," he breathed, tears blurring his vision. "By the gods... Elara, it’s you."
"You... left me..." she gasped, her hands shaking against his chest. "They... locked me in..."
"I know. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry," Adrian stammered, pulling off his velvet cloak and wrapping it around her shivering shoulders. "Who did this to you? How is this magic possible?"
Elara leaned into his chest, her heart hammering wildly against his ribcage. "The High Chancellor of Norwyn... it was dark alchemy. They encased me alive... suspended my soul to turn me into a weapon."
Before Adrian could process her words, heavy footsteps echoed in the hallway outside. The iron key turned in the heavy lock of the bedchamber door.
"Someone is coming," Elara panicked, her voice laced with dread. "If they see I am awake, they will finish the ritual!"
Adrian’s eyes narrowed, his protective instincts overriding his shock. He looked around the vast chamber. Behind his grand bed lay a concealed alcove hidden by heavy silk tapestries.
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"Trust me," Adrian urged softly, lifting her in his arms. He carried her swiftly behind the tapestry, lowering her gently onto a pile of plush velvet cushions. "Stay hidden. Do not make a sound."
He stepped back into the main room just as the heavy oak doors swung open.
