The early morning light filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows across the camp as Zia, Leon, and Alaric packed their belongings. The air felt thick, laden with Lyra's warning and the unspoken tension lingering between them. Zia's mind churned with questions about the Heartstone's true nature and what sacrifices it would ultimately demand of her. Still, as she glanced at Leon, his quiet presence seemed to anchor her, even as Alaric's guarded expression hinted at a wariness that wouldn't dissipate easily.
As they began their journey back toward Eldralore, Leon fell in step beside Zia, his hand brushing hers as if to remind her he was there. The touch was gentle, lingering just long enough to make her heart race. For a moment, they shared a silent understanding, a rare moment of calm in the midst of the storm they were braving together. Alaric's eyes flickered toward them, his jaw tightening before he looked away, quickening his pace ahead of them.