The day after the battle unfolded.
Morning sunlight filtered through the towering pines as Alex and Saeko followed a narrow trail that wound along the mountainside. A cool breeze stirred the branches overhead, carrying with it the scent of wildflowers and fresh earth.
Neither of them spoke.
They didn't need to.
The first place they stopped was a rocky overlook.
The valley stretched endlessly below them, painted in shades of emerald and gold. Rivers wound through forests like silver ribbons, while distant villages appeared no larger than scattered pebbles.
Saeko rested her hands on the wooden railing.
Alex stood beside her.
A flock of birds soared through the open sky.
For several peaceful minutes they simply watched.
The wind brushed past them, lifting strands of Saeko's hair.
Alex quietly reached out and tucked one loose strand behind her ear.
She looked at him.
A small smile appeared.
Nothing more was needed.
Their journey continued deeper into the mountains.
