Elisa moved with measured steps, breath short, one hand clenched against her temple. With each motion, the air around her seemed to vibrate—unseen yet tangible: Maggie floated behind, her limp body suspended by Elisa's power. Her pale face, locked in a dreamless sleep, seemed almost to reproach Elisa for this invisible burden.
Beside her, Zirel walked in silence, his hand resting on the hilt of his weapon, his gaze sharp, always alert. Inès followed, her steps discreet despite her fatigue, her eyes attentive to every rustle in the foliage. Armin trailed slightly behind, his features drawn but without complaint: he brought up the rear like an exhausted yet stubborn guard dog.
