Morning sunlight slipped through the window, laying a warm stripe across the floorboards. Rowen stirred where he had collapsed the night before, still lying on the floor instead of the bed. His body felt heavy with fatigue, every muscle stiff from the strain.
When he turned back, Fern was still asleep in the chair, his head tilted awkwardly, and Shade was curled in a ball on the floor. Rowen nudged them both awake. Shade stretched with a soft mewl, while Fern blinked and rubbed his eyes.
"Come on," Rowen said quietly.
He went to the small stove and set water to boil, tossing in chopped potatoes and a handful of fresh tomatoes. The familiar smell filled the room, simple but comforting. When it was ready, the three of them ate together in silence, the warmth of the soup easing the last of the night's weight.
Afterward, Rowen stood and drew in a slow breath. He focused, opening the portal himself this time. The air shimmered before him, and a portal appeared.
