Luke barely had time to process his thoughts when he collided with a figure emerging from the dense forest ahead. Staggering back, his instincts flared, but his panic subsided when he recognized Shesha's dishevelled appearance. She looked utterly exhausted—her hair dishevelled, her breathing ragged, and her face pale with anxiety. Her shoulders rose and fell heavily as she stared at him, a mixture of relief and anger flashing in her eyes.
"Luke!" she hissed, her voice trembling. "Do you have any idea how worried I've been? You just disappeared! I thought—"
Her voice broke as she paused, clutching her forehead.
"Do you know what it's like trying to search for you in this forest, with no trace? I almost thought I'd have to return empty-handed. How would I even explain that? To Queen Loreleia? To Ilyrana?"
Luke raised his hands in a calming gesture.
