The Heartloom's radiance melted into a calming rhythmic radiance, much like the heart of the universe finally stopping. Kael and Elira stood in the center of the crystal dais, still grasping hands, panting, bodies trembling from the avalanche of energy they had just unleashed. The shattered strands once tangled in chaos now hummed in harmony, each thread of destiny softly singing in its re-established pattern.
But peace had never been inexpensive.
Elira folded to one knee, a cruel gasp tearing from her throat. Kael caught up to her in a second, holding her fast before she could fall entirely. Her skin was flushed, pale against the blood seeping from her nose and the dainty cracks radiating along her arms where her essence had overextended itself.
"Elira! Hold on to me—"
"Hold on to—"
"Just—watch out—"
Voice a harsh whisper of weariness and terror.
"I'm all right," she breathed, eyelids twitching. "Just… used too much at once. The Heartloom— drew more than I did."
