Chapter 21 · The Bells Won't Stop

"Move, or I’ll carve a second hole in your chest," Mara snapped, her voice shaking despite the blade she had pressed against Cael’s ribs.

Cael didn't flinch. He didn't even breathe. He just leaned into the steel, his eyes dark and unreadable in the dim light of the alley. "You’re shaking, Mara. That’s a dangerous way to hold a knife."

"Shut up. Just—shut up!" She shoved him harder against the damp brick wall. The metal groaned against his coat.

Above them, the city bells began to toll. Not the rhythmic chime of the hour, but a frantic, discordant clanging. The alarm. The Crown’s hounds were close. They weren't just searching anymore; they were sweeping the sector.

"We can't stay here," Cael said, his voice a low vibration she felt in her own chest. "The moment those bells hit the third sequence, every exit in this district locks. We’ll be caged like rats."

"Then run!" Mara yelled, though she didn't move her hand. "Why aren't you running? You're the one with the pact, the one who knows how to hide!"

Cael’s hand shot up, his fingers wrapping around her wrist with a grip like iron.