As night settled over the cabin tucked deep within the forest, a peaceful calm embraced the surrounding trees. The warm glow of the campfire danced across everyone's faces as they shared meat, stories, and the rare luxury of safety.
Helena took a bite of roasted meat handed to her by Oliver. Her eyes widened at the taste. "Mmm. This is good. Good."
Eira let out a hearty laugh. "Of course it is! I'm the one who cooked it. I used to lead men into battle, but feeding hungry stomachs? That's my second-best skill."
"You're a good cook," Helena said with a genuine smile.
Cassandra sat quietly beside Charles, chewing slowly. Her eyes flicked up to Eira. "Can I ask your name?"
Eira turned to her with a soft look. "Sure, sweetheart. My name is Eira. I was once the Commander of the Golden Star Knights."
The fire popped and cracked as gasps rippled through the group.
"You were a commander?" Keal asked, eyes wide.
