Aria and Aether stood before the carriage, its polished surface gleaming under the mid-morning sun as they prepared to depart once again.
"Take care and be sure to eat well, my dear," Maelona said, her voice trembling with emotion. She wrapped her arms around Aria, pulling her into a tight hug. Tears shimmered in her eyes, threatening to spill over.
Aria returned the embrace, her own eyes misting with unshed tears, "Yes, M-Mom," she mumbled, her voice choked with emotion. She reluctantly pulled away and stepped into the carriage, her movements hesitant.
She knew that if she stayed any longer, she might break down, and she couldn't afford to cry in front of her mother. She had to stay strong. With a determined look, Aria vowed silently, 'I will do everything in my power to bring you back to normal, Mom.'
