Chapter 90

When I reached the clearing, Silas was already there, his form relaxed, almost casual, as he leaned against a tree at the edge of the clearing. He looked up as I approached, a smirk playing at his lips, and I felt the familiar pulse of irritation rise within me. Every inch of his posture was designed to provoke, to suggest that he held the upper hand. But I refused to let him see any hint of weakness.

“Silas,” I greeted, keeping my tone even.

“Elara,” he replied smoothly, stepping away from the tree and approaching me with a mockingly deferential nod.

“Thank you for agreeing to meet. I wasn’t sure if you’d come.”

“You asked to discuss peace,” I replied, crossing my arms.

“So here I am. But let’s not waste time with pleasantries. Why the sudden interest in peace, Silas?”

He chuckled, his eyes glinting with something close to amusement.