The weight of Damien's lifeless body seemed to crush Elara's very soul as she clung to him, her anguished cries echoing through the healer's tent. Seraphina awoke with a start, her eyes widening in horror at the scene unfolding before her.

"Elara..." Seraphina's voice wavered, her hand covering her mouth as she took in the gravity of the situation.

Elara's body trembled violently, her tears falling in torrents as she rocked back and forth, cradling Damien's head against her chest. "No, no, no..." she chanted, her words a broken mantra.

Seraphina moved to her side, her own cheeks glistening with tears. "Elara, you have to let him go," she whispered,...