Delilah:
The world feels distant, like I'm floating in a foggy dream. I can't see anything, but I hear voices—muffled, as if they're speaking through water.
One voice stands out, deep and familiar, calling to me.
Aries.
He's been calling for a while now, but I can't find my way back to him. My thoughts are scattered, tangled in memories of fire, blood, and Theo's lifeless eyes.
I don't want to remember. I don't want to go back.
But Aries doesn't stop. His voice is a constant pull, a lifeline I'm too afraid to grab.
"Delilah," he says, his tone softer now, almost pleading. "You can't stay here. They need you. Caspian needs you."
I don't answer. I don't know how.
******
Aries' Perspective
The sun is setting, casting a golden glow over Golden Crest. The air smells of ash and fresh pine, a reminder of the war that nearly destroyed us.