The morning after the shadow's attack was eerily quiet.
Ethan stood on the porch of the community center, watching the sun rise over the mountains. The golden light spread across the valley, painting everything in warm hues. Birds sang in the trees. A gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and wildflowers. It was beautiful. It was peaceful.
But the silence felt heavy. Like the world was holding its breath.
Nora walked out, her footsteps soft on the wooden boards. Her eyes were tired, her face drawn. She hadn't slept either.
"We need to talk," she said. "Alex is in the meditation room. He's been there all night."
Ethan followed her inside.
Alex sat in the center of the room, cross-legged, his eyes closed. His body was still. His breathing was slow. But his face was tense, his brow fu
