Twenty-Six

The Heart's faint gleam beat delicately within the clearing, casting a warm light that appeared to reach into the bottom of Clara's soul. In spite of the fact that it is weakened, its nearness was a guide of trust, a guarantee that their journey was not complete. The fight with Althea had been won, but the way to reestablishing balance had only but begun.

As the sun rose over the skyline, casting brilliant tints over the scene, Clara and her companions made their way back to the town. The air was fresh with the guarantee of a new dawn, however the weight of the Heart's give up waited in their minds.

The villagers welcomed them with a blend of amazement and appreciation, their faces carved with relief. Word of Althea's overcome had spread rapidly, and the information that the Heart's light still shone brought a recharged sense of trust to the community.

Elder Thomas approached Clara, his eyes brimming with gratitude. “You have done a great service for us all, Clara. The Heart’s light