The night passes in heavy silence. With Kieran gone, the air feels different... emptier. But Ace refuses to let that shake him. He knows Kieran will return.
At least they didn't leave him completely alone.
By morning, the atmosphere in the settlement has shifted. The witches move with less tension, but uncertainty still clings to them.
Now that Hunter is gone, the question of leadership looms over them like a storm cloud. Without a leader, everything they fought for could crumble.
Ace stands at the center of the clearing, facing the group. They have formed a rough circle, murmuring among themselves.
Jun is nearby, leaning lazily against a tree. He didn't leave with the others last night, choosing instead to stay behind with Ace.
And so did Elira.
The rest of Kieran's pack has returned home, Marsel Joined , leaving with them.
That leaves Ace, Jun, and Elira.