Rory's True Intentions

As we made our way out of the temple, the oppressive silence seemed to press down on us. The weight of what had just transpired still lingered in the air, thick and heavy like a storm cloud. My mind raced as I clutched the Shadow Crystal in my hand, its dark energy humming with an eerie pulse that matched the beating of my heart. I had barely controlled it—barely survived wielding its power. And now, I had to face something far more immediate: Rory.

He had been by my side since the beginning of this journey, always supportive, always present. But lately, things felt off. There had been moments where his gaze lingered too long, where his questions had grown too sharp, too invasive. And in the midst of everything—training with Elijah, the pressure of learning to control the relics—I'd pushed those concerns aside. But now, with the Shadow Crystal burning in my palm and the weight of new responsibilities looming, I couldn't ignore it anymore.