The morning air above the hills was still damp with dew. A thin fog hung between the trees, adding to the silence. On top of a small cliff overlooking the ravine and the rushing river below, several people stood with sad faces.

Among them, Elena stood in a simple black dress, her swollen belly indicating that she was eight months pregnant. Her hands held a burning incense stick, its smoke dancing slowly into the air, as if carrying unheard prayers.

Nathan stood beside Elena, dressed in dark attire, silent and steadfast. Sonia stood not far behind them, alongside Tamara and Damian. Grandmother Clara was also present, her face older than...