Dawn came slowly.
Soft light slipped through the cracks in the hut walls, brushing the floor in pale gold.
Zarek had not slept, not even for a single moment.
He sat beside Eliora the entire night, watching her chest rise and fall. Every small shift in her breathing made his heart tighten.
The incense had burned low hours ago, leaving only a faint scent in the air.
Still, she had not woken.
His fingers remained wrapped around hers, as if letting go would undo whatever fragile balance held her here.
Outside, the valley was already stirring, but for him, the world had narrowed to the woman on the bed.
He leaned forward, brushing his thumb across her hand once more.
"You're stronger than this," he murmured quietly. "Come back to me."
She didn't move.
A muscle ticked in his jaw.
Enough waiting.
Zarek stood and turned toward the corner of the hut where Maelina had fallen asleep in a wooden chair.
He walked over and tapped her shoulder.
"Maelina."
She stirred faintly.
