As they got ready for the last part of their journey, the group's tired faces were illuminated by the golden tint that the rising sun put over the expansive valley. The heavy silence that hung between them was relieved by the chirp of faraway birds and the rustle of foliage, and the air was thick with expectancy.
Even with the weariness engraved on her face, Mara's voice remained calm as she replied, "We've come this far." "We face the future together, no matter what."
Her fingers brushed the cold steel of the artefact that had caused so much upheaval as she adjusted the straps on her battered leather pack. They were drawn into an unknown future by it, which was both a burden and a light.
Elias looked at the horizon with keen eyes and nodded. It was a perilous journey through thick forests and rocky cliffs, but it was the only route to the old citadel where their enquiries would be addressed at last. The burden of his protective role was greater than ever as he adjusted his quiver and
