Chapter 106: The Burden of Choices
The journey back to their camp was a quiet one. The weight of the recent battle hung heavily over them, none of them willing to speak of the cost, or the implications of what had just transpired. Anita, though physically drained, carried a burden far heavier than mere exhaustion. Every step felt as though she were walking through a fog, her mind still consumed by the weight of the decision she had made.
As they reached the clearing where they had set up camp, Anita collapsed onto the nearest log, her strength fully spent. Jace sat beside her, though he didn’t touch her, respecting the silence she needed. Kael, ever watchful, stood nearby, scanning their surroundings.
“Anita…” Jace’s voice was soft, but his concern was palpable. “What did you mean back there? About balance and sacrifice?”