silence.
It descended over the battlefield with an almost unnatural weight.
The roaring wind stilled.
The crashing waves below the cliff seemed to lose their voice.
Even the monsters hiding within the distant forest instinctively lowered themselves, too afraid to move.
Everyone stared.
Karin Virell rested quietly within Valkar's embrace, one hand still pressed against the dragon's broad chest.
The violent crimson that had consumed Valkar's eyes moments ago faded completely, leaving behind their familiar molten gold.
He blinked.
once.
twice.
His breathing remained heavy, but the terrifying bloodlust that had suffocated the battlefield disappeared as though it had never existed.
"... Karin?"
His voice came out hoarse.
confused.
almost fragile.
Karin smiled softly.
"I'm here."
For several long seconds, Valkar simply looked at her.
as though trying to convince himself this wasn't another illusion.
His trembling hand slowly rose.
