The sun was beginning its descent toward the horizon when Akhil spotted them returning. Four figures approaching the settlement gates, moving with a confidence that hadn't been there two days ago.
"They're back," Akhil said, nudging Seth and Nibo. The three of them had been waiting near the gates, taking a break from organizing the final preparations.
As Nyla, Aria, Ryan, and James drew closer, Akhil felt something shift in the air around him.
It was subtle at first—just a vague sense of difference. But as they approached, it became undeniable.
Even from several feet away, standing near Nyla made the air feel colder. Not the active, aggressive cold of her ice abilities being used, but something more fundamental. As if the temperature itself recognized her presence and bowed to it. Frost didn't form, but Akhil could feel the chill radiating from her like heat from a forge—constant, powerful, barely contained.
His eyes moved to Ryan, and he did a double-take.
