The warmth of the fire seeped into Sera’s bones, chasing away the lingering chill from their long trek. She let out a contented sigh as she leaned back in the oversized chair she had claimed, her gaze wandering around Ace’s cavernous home. The walls were lined with shelves brimming with ancient books, glinting artifacts, and strange trinkets that seemed to hum faintly with dormant energy. Every detail spoke of a life lived in quiet isolation, steeped in mystery and, perhaps, loneliness.
Ace, meanwhile, moved with practiced ease, gathering items from around the cavern. He laid a map on a large wooden table near the fire, its edges curling slightly from age, and pinned it flat with polished stones.
“This place really is incredible,” Sera said, her voice light with genuine admiration. “Cozy
