Dual POV
The forest seemed quieter than usual as Lyra and Kaelan stepped onto the winding path that led to Riverbend. The trees, tall and ancient, bore the scars of the storms that had ravaged the land in recent weeks. Their branches swayed gently, as though whispering secrets only the wind could carry.
Lyra's heart was heavy, a storm of emotions she could neither untangle nor fully understand. Relief clashed with fear, and exhaustion weighed on her every step.
Kaelan's arm was firm around her shoulders, but even he walked slower than usual. The injuries from the battle with Rowan still throbbed with each heartbeat, a stark reminder that their enemy had left a mark far deeper than the flesh.
Lyra's hand instinctively found his, gripping it tightly. In silence, they walked, letting the forest's muffled whispers cloak the tension simmering between them.
"Do you think… they'll notice?" Lyra finally asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
