Ankyra Sound Marigold

Riordan's heart hammered in his chest like that of a cornered prey animal as he made his way towards Reverie. Memories of their late-night escapades and early-morning confessions came flooding back, like spectres from a bygone era, pulling him back into a past he had thought was lost forever. But when Reverie turned around, he was looking into the face of a stranger. Her eyes were colder than he remembered, and her teeth bared in a snarl.

"Who are you? And how do I know you?" she asked, her voice brittle and harsh.

Riordan froze, his gut clenching tight. He gritted his teeth, trying to maintain his composure, and then he let out a dry, humourless chuckle. There was no laughter in it, only the resignation of a man who knew the truth. It made sense that she didn't remember. Reverie always feared losing her memories. He was relieved by the knowledge that she hadn't left him by choice. The wind howled mournfully, like a chorus of lost souls, as Riordan and Reverie stood facing each other, their eyes locked.

"Reverie... Daylily Medeiros," he rumbled, his voice hoarse with emotion. "You told me once that if this day ever came, I should remind you of my promise."

His heart cracked under the weight of the realisation that his promise was now meaningless. He had pledged to keep her safe from the darkness, but now he couldn't even protect her from herself. The revelation hit him like a kick in the gut and left him reeling.