Chapter 1134: The Dawn of Resolve

The first light of dawn broke through the dense canopy, casting long, golden rays over the forest floor. Emily's eyes fluttered open, the familiar ache in her muscles reminding her of the trials they had faced. She could feel the cold earth beneath her, its chill a stark contrast to the warmth of the morning sun. She wasn't sure how long she had been unconscious, but the trials—the torment—were behind her now.

She sat up slowly, her thoughts racing. Alaric. Mira. Were they still in their trials? Or had they been freed like her?

As if in answer to her thoughts, a soft rustle echoed from the nearby trees. Emily turned sharply, her hand instinctively going to the dagger strapped to her waist. But as the figure emerged from the shadows, her grip relaxed.

It was Alaric.