The world outside the sanctuary was eerily quiet. Emily and Mira stood at the entrance, staring out into the vast expanse of the frozen north, now bathed in the pale light of dawn. The wind had died down, leaving only the soft crunch of snow under their boots and the distant groan of ice shifting beneath the weight of a land forever cold. The storm that had plagued them earlier was gone, as if the world had quieted in response to Aiden's sacrifice.
Emily's heart was heavy as she glanced back at the sanctuary. They had left Aiden behind—his body now cold and motionless, sealed within the ancient chamber. His spirit was part of the seal now, but the empty space beside her was a stark reminder of all they had lost. She couldn't shake the image of his face, lifeless and pale, from her mind.
