Yuna kept calling across the chasm, her voice echoing again and again into the dark. The only reply was the hollow return of her own words, bouncing back from unseen walls. She cupped her hands around her mouth and tried once more, her voice straining against the oppressive silence.
No answer came.
The quiet that followed felt heavier than the shaking earth had moments ago. Even the faint glow from the scattered crystals couldn't push back the shadowy weight that seemed to gather between them and the far side.
Jae stood beside her, watching the tense set of her shoulders, the way her fingers curled into fists every time her calls went unanswered.
He let her try a few more times, the sound fading into nothing each time. Then, finally, he stepped forward and placed a steadying hand on her shoulder. His touch was firm but not forceful, meant to ground her rather than restrain her.
