Chapter 1415

Rose stood, her body glowing softly, hair cascading over her shoulders like black silk. "The next path begins in the marrow caverns. Where the island keeps its memories. Where roots drink from bones."

Grace shivered. "That's… beneath the southern cliffs."

"We've never gone that deep," Stella said.

Rose looked at Jude. "Now we must."

Jude nodded slowly. "Then we rest. And at sunset… we go."

They rose together, helped one another down from the altar. The vines curled fondly around ankles and wrists, almost reluctant to let them go. The chamber's light dimmed as they left, a slow farewell.

Outside, the forest felt quieter - but not silent.

Listening.

The walk back was slow, filled with touches, with stolen kisses and soft laughter. The air still shimmered faintly, and though their bodies had just been drenched in pleasure, they felt renewed, not exhausted. As if the act had filled them rather than drained.