Chapter Thirty-Four: The Calm Before the Storm

The morning after the bond was finalized was still and quiet, a stark contrast to the storm of emotions that had overwhelmed them the night before. Seraphine awoke in the warmth of the bed between Azrael and Kairos, their presence surrounding her like a protective shield. Their magic was still strong, a constant hum in the air, as though their union had stirred something deeper, something that was both comforting and powerful.

For a moment, she just lay there, letting the serenity of the morning wash over her, taking in the feeling of their closeness. She could feel the bond between them in every breath, in every heartbeat. It was solid, unbreakable. But with it came the undeniable truth - today was the day. The Wild Hunt would be upon them soon.

As the morning light filtered through the curtains, Seraphine rose from the bed, her movements slow, lingering for a moment in the quiet stillness. She glanced at Azrael and Kairos, who were still asleep, their faces relaxed in the rare peace of the moment. The sight of them, so vulnerable, made her heart swell with affection. They had fought for each other, for this bond. Now, they had to fight for the future.

She took a deep breath and moved to the window, her gaze turning outward as she felt the pulse of the magic around her. The Wild Hunt was coming, and they had little time left to prepare. She had to keep her focus, to be the leader they needed her to be.

The room behind her stirred, and she felt Azrael's presence before she even heard him move. His footsteps were soft, but his aura was undeniable. He approached her quietly, wrapping his arms around her waist, his body pressing into her back as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

"You're thinking about the battle," he murmured, his voice deep and warm against her ear.

Seraphine nodded, her fingers curling around his. "We don't have much time."

"We'll face them together," Azrael said, his voice steady but filled with resolve. "All three of us."

At that, Kairos stirred behind them, his eyes meeting theirs as he rose from the bed. His presence was commanding, a steady force that grounded them both. As he moved toward Seraphine, his hand reached out to gently touch her cheek, a silent reassurance.

"We're ready," Kairos said, his voice rough but full of certainty.

For a moment, they stood there, the three of them locked in this shared silence, the bond between them stronger than ever. The Wild Hunt may be coming for them, but together, they would face whatever came next.