The sound of soft footsteps echoed through the corridor as Clara’s small frame came into view. She walked slowly, her usual cheerful expression tempered by the slight frown that often appeared when something was on her mind. The mechanical companion, Svarog, hovered just behind her, his constant presence a comforting reminder that she was never truly alone.

You stood by the window, gazing out at the stars, your mind wandering to thoughts you hadn’t been able to shake all day. When Clara entered the room, you turned toward her, a gentle smile tugging at your lips.

Clara blinked, her eyes meeting yours, and for a moment, you saw the flicker of vulnerability that she rarely allowed anyone to see. She was always so strong, always carrying the weight of her own struggles with a quiet resilience. She still needed her older sibling, even if she was a strong child.