The camp was hidden in a shallow basin — ringed by tall rocks and illusion wards that shimmered faintly.
Tents of patched canvas, small fires, people moving quietly — no children, no laughter.
Rhea led them in — heads turned, eyes sharp.
Miko felt exposed.
Kael walked beside her — slower, leaning on her shoulder.
A healer — older woman, gray hair braided tight — met them at the center tent.
She looked at Kael's wounds — then at Miko's seal.
"Inside."
They entered.
The tent was warm — herbs burning, cot ready.
The healer worked fast — cleaning, stitching, bandaging properly.
Kael winced — but stayed silent.
Miko watched.
The healer finished — looked at Miko.
"The seal.
It's awake."
Miko nodded.
The healer sighed.
"I've seen one before.
Not yours.
But close.
It took the bearer in three weeks."
Miko swallowed.
"How did it end?"
The healer's voice was quiet.
"She chose to end it herself.
Before it took her completely."
Miko looked away.
The healer continued.
"But you're different.
It's talking to you.
That means it's… learning."
Miko met her eyes.
"Can it be stopped?"
The healer shook her head.
"Not stopped.
But… slowed.
Balanced.
If you're strong enough."
Miko looked at Kael.
He was watching her — eyes steady.
The healer stood.
"Rest.
Eat.
Tomorrow we talk more."
She left.
Miko sat beside Kael's cot.
He looked at her.
"You're thinking about it."
Miko nodded.
"I don't want to die like that."
Kael reached out — took her hand.
"You won't."
Miko looked at their joined hands.
The seal pulsed — once, warm.
Stay.
She squeezed his hand.
"I know."
They rested.
Outside — the camp was quiet.
But Miko felt eyes on them.
Watching.
Waiting.
To be continued…