Chapter 4 The final choice

The storm rolled in without warning. Wind howled through the manor's broken windows, and the veil shimmered like a curtain in the corner of Mara's vision - barely there, but pulsing with power.

They stood together in the ritual chamber, the amulet between them. Around them, the symbols carved into the stone glowed with pale light, responding to the bond in their blood.

Eleanor's voice echoed through the chamber, disembodied but fierce. "One must be forgotten, or the curse remains."

Aiden looked at Mara, eyes steady. "If one of us must go, let it be me."

"No." Her voice cracked. "We've done this too many times. Lost too much. There has to be another way."

"There isn't." He stepped forward, placing the amulet against his chest. It began to burn - bright, blinding.

Mara's hands trembled. "I don't want to forget you."

He smiled, soft and sad. "Then remember me differently."

The light consumed him.

Mara screamed.

When the storm broke, she stood alone in silence. The mark on her wrist faded. The veil was gone.

And though she couldn't recall his name, she clutched the warmth left in her chest like a memory.

Love endured - even without a face.