The first rays of dawn bathed the land in a golden light, illuminating the frost-dappled fields surrounding the village. For Elena, it marked yet another sleepless night spent waiting for news—news of Mara, the raiders, or anything that could piece together the puzzle unraveling before them.
Kael found her in the courtyard, gazing toward the horizon. “You need rest,” he said softly, his concern evident.
“I need answers,” Elena replied, her voice taut with exhaustion.
“They’ll come,” Kael assured her. “But not if you collapse before then. Come, eat something. The world can wait for an hour.”
Reluctantly, Elena allowed him to lead her to the small dining hall, where a modest breakfast had been prepared. As she picked at her food, a messenger burst into the room, breathless and wide-eyed.
