Chapter 35
The mountains felt different now.
Not peaceful.
But quieter.
The kind of quiet that comes after something big has already happened.
The sky above the cliffs was still filled with dragons, but their movements were slower now. No more rushing. No more fighting. Just wide circles across the air, watching the land below.
Ariana stood near the edge of the cliff.
The wind brushed gently against her face, carrying the scent of smoke and stone.
Her body still felt tired.
The power she used earlier had not fully returned yet.
But for the first time since everything began, she was not running.
She was standing still.
Kael stood a few steps behind her.
He had been watching her for a while now.
"You should rest."
Ariana did not turn.
"I am resting."
Kael crossed his arms.
"You have been standing in the same place for ten minutes."
"That counts."
Kael shook his head slightly.
"You are stubborn."
Ariana smiled faintly.
"I learned from you."
Kael stepped closer.
