Aria's POV

I woke to silence.

The gentle hum in your ears made your heartbeat feel louder than usual. I slowly blinked my eyes open, noticing the soft glow of lantern light seeping into the healer's tent. The air carried a familiar mix of herbs, blood, and smoke...reminders of the recent battle lingering with every breath I took.

For a moment, I was disoriented, unsure of my surroundings. Then, the pain hit me unexpectedly...a deep, hollow ache in my lower belly that made me flinch. My hands ...