Kael wandered the quiet halls of the chamber, lost in thought when his eyes landed on a familiar figure. Kleera sat by the corner, her shoulders slightly slumped as she gently caressed a bow and arrow—the weapon Aeron had left behind. Beside her, a leather-bound book with Caleb’s insignia rested on the stone bench. Kael paused for a moment, taking in the sorrow etched into her features. Her hands trembled as she traced the intricate carvings on the bow, and though her face was calm, he could see the quiet storm brewing in her eyes. “Kleera,” Kael called softly, his voice breaking the silence as he approached her. He sat beside her without hesitation. Startled, Kleera quickly wiped at her tear-streaked face and forced a shaky smile. “Ah… good morning, Kael,” she said, trying to sound composed. But Kael saw through her attempt. Her smile didn’t reach her eyes, and the ache in her voice betrayed her. “You miss them, don’t you?” he asked gently, his tone filled with understanding. S

“Mother... do you remember Caleb?” Kael’s voice trembled slightly as he stepped closer to the frail figure seated by the window. The soft light of the morning sun illuminated Kaida’s silver-streaked hair, her once-vivid eyes clouded with years of sorrow and battle. “Your colleague… back when you fought the Archon?” His words hung in the air like a fragile thread, attempting to tug at her scattered memories. Kaida’s fingers, once nimble and strong, paused in their idle trace along the windowpane. She turned to him, her face momentarily blank. Then, something sparked within her, a flicker of recognition. Her lips curved into a small, excited smile that lit up her weary features. “Caleb...” she murmured, the name slipping past her lips like a cherished melody long forgotten. Her smile grew brighter, more youthful, as though the name alone breathed life into her. “Caleb! Where is he?” she suddenly exclaimed, her voice filled with unbridled excitement. Her hands gripped Kael’s arm as if