*Saoirse*

The weight of the impending battle pressed down on us, heavier than the mightiest of swords. I glanced at Rhys, his face etched with the same concern that knotted my insides. But our bodies ached for rest, our muscles weary from days of relentless training and strategizing.

"Come," I said softly, reaching for his hand. "We need to sleep if we're to face what comes."

Rhys hesitated, the shadows from the flickering candles dancing across his furrowed ...