**Elena’s POV**
As the fire crackled softly, casting playful shadows that danced among the trees, I allowed myself a moment of calm to reflect. The warmth was a comforting balm against the night’s chill, a stark contrast to the chaos that lay ahead. The rhythmic snapping of burning wood was soothing, a lullaby that momentarily eased the tension thrumming beneath my skin.
Rykor sat next to me, his presence a solid anchor amid a whirlpool of uncertainty. The thought of Winter out there, facing unknown dangers, was a persistent ache that refused to fade. I couldn't shake the feeling that time was slipping through our fingers like sand, yet I knew we couldn't rush blindly into the night with fatigue clawing at us.
Jake was sprawled opposite the fire, his head resting on a makeshift pillow c
