"Florian…" Riona mumbled, clutching the fabric of Thorin's sleeves like a lifeline, repeating her brother's name over and over, wild-eyed, as if the sound alone could anchor her.
"Easy now. You've just woken up," Thorin murmured, steady but gentle. "You need to rest a bit more before we set out."
But she wouldn't hear him—couldn't. Her mind was still tangled in the shadows of her dream, unable to separate memory from reality. The darkness clung to her, as did the ache, sharp and real enough to leave her breathless.
"Because it is real."
The voice sliced through her haze—The Fallen One, answering the panic pulsing through her thoughts.
"Your brother is in grave danger. I'm not warning you out of caution anymore. He needs you. This is worse than it's ever been."
"Florian!" Riona gasped, shaking her head, shoving at Thorin's hold as she tried to scramble out of bed.
Thorin held firm. "Wait. You might not be strong enough yet. Please—just give it a moment."
