Once Upon a Choice

Previously

…The path ahead was not the one she had envisioned, not a quick wish granted, but a journey of collaboration, of understanding, of shared effort. It was a path that required patience and wisdom, qualities she had been slowly cultivating throughout her journey. She met Malakor’s gaze, a genuine smile finally gracing her lips. “I think,” she said, her voice filled with a newfound strength, “that sounds like a much better choice.” The cavern, which had moments before felt like a place of desperate decision, now felt like the beginning of a hopeful alliance. The Heartstone pulsed softly, as if in agreement.