Glimmer of vulnerability

The days grew darker as they ventured deeper into the forests surrounding Eldralore, the ancient trees casting twisted shadows under the pale light of the moon. The group moved cautiously, aware of Seraphine's spies lurking just out of sight. Zia's resolve was firm, but the weight of the amulet, and the responsibility that came with it, felt heavier with each step.

That night, the group set up camp by a glistening creek, its soft babbling providing an odd sense of tranquility against the ever-present tension. Zia found herself seated near the fire, alone with Leon. The others had drifted off, finding solace in quiet conversations or the comfort of sleep. The air between them was quiet, and yet, it buzzed with an energy that neither could ignore.

"Do you remember your life… before the curse?" Zia asked softly, breaking the silence.