Unseen affection

The air in Eldralore had shifted since their encounter with Madame Seraphine, the shadows retreating, if only slightly. Zia found a small sense of peace, though she knew it was temporary. Still, she allowed herself a few days of reprieve, focusing on smaller tasks, gathering supplies, and listening to the distant hum of Leon's voice in her mind. She had grown accustomed to his presence, like a constant companion who had become part of her routine. But lately, there was something different about him, something in the way he spoke that felt… closer, more personal.

Zia was sitting on a large tree root one evening, her dagger balanced across her knees as she looked out over the darkened landscape. She absentmindedly thumbed the edge of the blade, her mind half-listening as Leon's voice wove through her thoughts, gentle and thoughtful.

"You've changed since we met," he said quietly. There was an intensity to his tone, a warmth that took her off guard.