Chapter 65 – Threads Across Realms

George stared at the glowing message hovering above the system interface. Mariana's words pulsed with warmth and resolve, a lifeline cast across galaxies. Even though she was far, he felt her presence — guiding, watching, caring.

"I'm proud of you, George. The boy who once clung to hope is becoming a man of strength and heart. Keep going. I'll be watching… always."

His fingers trembled as he replied. "I miss you. When you come back, I'll be someone you'll be proud to walk beside. We'll build everything you dreamed of. Together."

Far away, in a realm where the sky shimmered violet and trees whispered secrets, Mariana wiped a tear from her cheek. The mission here was delicate — a fractured kingdom on the brink of collapse, its young ruler manipulated by dark forces. She had earned the trust of a few villagers and was working to uncover the source of the corruption. Though this world was unlike anything she'd known, the heartache and injustice were all too familiar.

As she stood atop a cliff, wind tugging at her cloak, the system pinged softly.

"Message from George received."

She smiled. Her strength doubled.

Meanwhile, George felt a shift — as if her hand brushed his shoulder from across the stars.