"The Weight of Years"

Mikaela, overwhelmed with emotion, approached Silverin and gently touched her face.

Silverin was staring at Mikaela's legs, a sad, empty look in her eyes. It was as if she had lost a part of her soul. She avoided looking anyone in the face.

Tears welled up in Mikaela's eyes.

Leonard's gaze widened in shock, but he said nothing. Everyone present was stunned into silence, perplexed by the transformation.

Only Kaleb, completely oblivious to the heavy atmosphere, blurted out, "Who's that? Where's Silverin?"

Xavier knelt beside his friend, taking her hand. "Silverin... why?" he asked, his voice filled with concern and confusion.

"Is that Silverin?" Kaleb persisted, still utterly confused.

Evelyn grabbed him by the hood and dragged him away, hissing, "Don't say another word or you'll be dead."

Silverin finally lifted her head, looking Mikaela in the eyes.