{"Sometimes it's only in the darkness that we can truly see the light."}
The weight in the air shifted. Even after the vision faded, a chill crept through the cavern like a shadow growing longer. Tor and I exchanged glances the kind that said we both felt it: darkness was rising again. The island held its breath with us, every stone and whispering breeze warning of what was coming. Hours passed in heavy silence and finally the cave's great doors groaned open.
Light spilled in, but it was not the dawn. It was the sharp scent of salt and blood.
We turned sharply to see Rou, staggering through the threshold, his frame bruised and battered, claws dragging slightly on the stone. Elle was right behind him her face pale but fierce, eyes blazing with fire and relief.
Without a word, Tor and I rose, rushing forward instinctively.
"Rou!" Elle gasped, clutching his arm, steadying him.
I reached out, steadying Rou's weight as he faltered.
