Freya‘s pov.

The first rays of dawn brushed against my cheeks, warm and inviting. I blinked slowly, allowing myself a moment to register where I was. The ache in my muscles was dulled by a surprising sense of peace. I hadn't expected to sleep so soundly, especially not in the middle of a forest with only Arius for company. But I had. And I felt... rested. Recharged. Ready.

Yet, the space beside me was empty.

I sat up quickly, my heart skipping. "Arius?" I called out ...