Chapter 16
Chapter 17: Holding the Line
Kathleen wakes troubled by the threat's knowledge of her name. The group prepares to return to the fissure, but Kaelen's wound worsens, revealing a deeper corruption. David and Kathleen must decide whether to push forward or retreat, and Elara offers a final warning about the cost of the weave.
Kathleen woke before dawn, the fire reduced to embers that cast long, trembling shadows across the cabin walls. She lay still on the makeshift bed of blankets and pine boughs, listening to the slow, steady breathing of the others. Kaelen was propped against the far wall, his arm freshly bandaged, his face pale even in the dim light. David sat by the window, his back to her, his silhouette sharp against the gray sky. He had not slept. She could tell by the set of his shoulders, the way his hand rested on the sill, as if he were holding something at bay.
She rose quietly, the cold air biting her skin, and crossed to him. He did not turn, but his hand found hers, his fingers warm against the chill.
"You should rest," she said, her voice low.
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