Morning brought aching muscles and a cloudy sky. Jas struggled to find their rhythm, their mind a storm of self-doubt. Roman noticed and slowed his pace, walking beside them. “You’re stronger than you think,” he said quietly.
Jas didn’t respond, but the words lingered. They weren’t sure they believed it yet, but Roman’s steady presence was a small comfort.
The trail wound through a dense forest, the air growing colder. They passed a stream, its waters shimmering like liquid silver. Ivy Mae bent to fill their canteens and paused, staring at her reflection. “Do you think we’ll make it?” she asked softly.
Roman’s voice was firm. “We have to.”