That morning, when Eliora stirred awake, the first thing she noticed was the light...normal light.
The eclipse was over.
She sat up immediately, relief rushing through her so fast she almost laughed.
They could finally leave.
Her gaze moved across the tent and stopped.
Zarek was already awake. He stood a short distance away, watching her.
She couldn't read his expression. It wasn't anger. It wasn't softness either...just unsettling.
"Zarek?" she called softly.
He blinked once, like she had pulled him out of a thought.
"We have to move," he said immediately. "Get dressed quickly."
The urgency in his tone startled her.
She pushed the blanket aside and stood, walking toward him to reach for his hand, but he stepped back.
"I'll be waiting by the horses," he added, already turning away. "Come with Maelina."
Her hand slowly dropped.
"Alright," she murmured.
He didn't look back before leaving the tent.
Eliora stood there for a moment, utterly confused by what just happened.
