That night, war paused.
But tension didn't.
Kaela sat beside Ryven as he rested.
"You almost died," she whispered.
Ryven opened his eyes.
"You didn't let me."
She looked away.
"I hurt you."
"You're learning."
Silence.
Then softly—
He touched her face.
"You're still her."
Kaela's voice broke.
"…And if I lose myself?"
Ryven pulled her closer.
"Then I'll bring you back."
Their foreheads touched.
And in the middle of war—
They chose each other.