The Thorn and the Night

For centuries, the people of Elaris have feared the Black Veil.

They say the forest belongs to monsters.

They say no one who enters after nightfall ever returns.

Makiana has never believed every story she was told.

But when ancient bells echo through the darkness and a desperate cry for help leads her beyond the forest's edge, she finds herself face to face with a stranger whose silver eyes hide more secrets than answers.

One act of kindness changes everything.

Taken beyond the Black Veil into a kingdom long hidden from human eyes, Makiana discovers that legends are only half the truth-and that someone has been waiting for her long before she ever crossed the border.

As whispers of an ancient power spread through the shadows, old enemies begin to stir, forgotten promises resurface, and the line between monster and protector begins to blur.

Some doors, once opened, can never be closed.

And some destinies awaken only after nightfall.