Page 64 of Lost in Fire

I know what he’s really saying. My judgment could be compromised. My loyalty divided. In his position, I’d have the same concerns.

“Ember’s safety is what matters,” I say firmly.

“For now.” Viktor’s tone carries a warning. “But if this relationship puts the Collective at risk—if your personal feelings compromise operational security—I’ll make the hard choices necessary to protect what we’ve built here.”

“That’s not going to happen,” I say firmly.

“I hope you’re right.”

As our meeting concludes, I move to the window, looking back toward the direction we came from. Somewhere beyond those mountains, Vanya remains surrounded by enemies who would kill her without hesitation if they discovered her true nature.

Viktor notices my distraction. “You’re worried about her.”

“If they discover what she’s been doing…” I leave the sentence unfinished.

“Then pray they don’t,” Viktor responds, his tone gentler than before.

The words offer no comfort. Because somewhere in the distance, the woman I’ve loved for decades is playing a game where discovery means death. And there’s nothing I can do to help her except ensure our daughter survives whatever’s coming.

I won’t leave it this way.

Whatever it takes, however long it takes, I’ll find a way back to her.

We didn’t go through all that we have just to lose each other again.

Not like this.

Chapter 22

Vanya

The Shadowhand’s mask feels heavier today. I adjust it for the fourth time in as many minutes, rolling my shoulders to loosen the knot that’s formed there.

Three days since they left. Three days of performing normally while everything inside me has shattered. I reach through our bond, feeling for Hargen’s presence across the distance. He’s there—faint but unmistakable. The connection tells me they’ve reached safety but offers no details.

The intercom buzzes, interrupting my thoughts.

“Elder Arrowvane,” Marek’s voice carries professional detachment. “The quarterly security briefing begins in ten minutes.”

“Thank you,” I respond, voice steady despite the storm inside. “I’ll be there shortly.”

I stand, smoothing invisible wrinkles from my suit. Everything in place. Every emotion contained. The same discipline that’skept me alive for so long must now carry me through endless days without Ember’s laughter or those few precious moments I’d shared with Hargen.

Focus on what matters. The work. The network. The families who depend on you.

But the emptiness follows like a shadow as I walk through corridors where junior staff straighten when I pass, conversations halting mid-sentence. The Shadowhand still commands fear, still maintains authority that can protect what matters.

The conference room falls silent as I enter. Five figures are seated around the table, their masks reflecting light. The Ivory League is in session, minus Vex, who appears to be running late.

“Colleagues.” I take my seat, nodding to each in turn. “Shall we begin?”

Elder Cymbane gestures to the holographic display above the table. “Security protocols review. In light of recent… inconsistencies.”

Inconsistencies…

I keep my expression neutral behind my mask, though my pulse quickens.

Has something been discovered already?

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