The clearing stayed quiet behind them.
No one said anything as they walked.
Not even Meren.
The trees didn't press in like before. They didn't part either. Just stood still. Listening, maybe. Or waiting.
Lindarion kept his eyes forward.
Ren walked ahead now, just slightly. Her shoulders were relaxed. But her hands weren't in her coat anymore.
Lira moved beside him. Not saying much. Still holding the hilt in her hand, unwrapped. The green shimmer had dulled a little, but not faded. Like it was only pretending to sleep.
Lindarion didn't glance at it again. He didn't have to.
'Whatever that thing is… it's important to her.'
He adjusted the strap of his pack. The new sword sat against his hip. No rattle. No drag. It moved like a part of him now.
Ahead, the trail narrowed again. Not much. Just enough to force them into a thinner line.
