The clearing stood still, shrouded in an uneasy silence. Now restored, the Heartwood radiated a gentle, peaceful light that gave everything a dreamy glow. However, the weight that hung in the air was not relieved by the warmth of its brightness.Lena remained on her knees, her fingers brushing the grass where Zara had stood moments ago. Kaden knelt beside her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. “She chose this,” he said softly, though the strain in his voice betrayed his own emotions.“I know,” Lena whispered, her voice cracking. “But knowing doesn’t make it easier.”Damon walked closer, leaning heavily on his hammer. “She gave us a second chance. If we waste it, her sacrifice means nothing.”Lena turned to look at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “She didn’t have to die. There must have been another way.”“There wasn’t,” Elara interjected, her tone unusually gentle. She stood at a distance, arms crossed as if shielding herself from the weight of the moment. “Zara k
Last Updated : 2024-12-05 Read more