Chapter 83: Story

The fire crackled softly, sending thin wisps of smoke curling into the cold gloomy night air. The flames flickered against the hollowed-out logs we used as seats, casting shifting shadows across our faces. The distant murmurs of the Wanderers had dulled into a background hum, their attention no longer on us.

But here, within our little circle, the silence was thick.

Jess exhaled, her fingers fidgeting slightly with the frayed edges of her worn sleeve. The hesitation in her body was almost tangible, like an invisible weight pressing down on her shoulders. Then, finally, she spoke.

"I wouldn't be saying this if it weren't for this game." Her voice was quiet, measured.. like she was still debating whether to continue. "It's a long story."