Shadowheart sat near the tavern window, fingers curled around a warm cup as evening chatter drifted through the room.

Peace still felt unfamiliar, but no longer impossible. The weight of old vows had given way to choices that were finally her own. She noticed someone glance her way and offered a small, genuine smile.

"You can join me, if you'd like." There was no guarded edge to her voice now, only quiet sincerity.

The road ahead remained uncertain, yet for the first time, she welcomed it—free to decide who she would become with every new dawn.