Samantha King: The Whispering Woods

Previously

…"I'm alright," she managed, meeting Elias’s gaze. In his eyes, she saw not just friendship, but a depth of care that resonated with her own heart. He had stood by her, defended her, believed in her when the allure of power had threatened to consume her. And in that moment, surrounded by the ancient trees, she knew that her connection to Elias, like her connection to the Whispering Woods, was more profound than she had ever imagined. The path ahead was still fraught with peril, but for the first time, Samantha King felt truly ready to face it, not as a girl hearing the trees, but as their unwavering guardian.