_Dorian's POV_
The morning air was cold when I returned to the valley.
Mist clung to the grass like a shroud, hiding the rocks and roots beneath it. The sun barely pushed through the clouds, casting a dull gray light over the land. Everything felt quiet. Too quiet.
Marcus waited by the old tree stump where we had set up the lookout post. He turned when he saw me. I could see the exhaustion lining his face. There were dark circles under his eyes, and his shoulders sagged like he had been carrying the whole war on his back.
“You’re back early,” he said while rubbing his temple.
I nodded. “Didn’t sleep much. Thought I would take over.”
“You sure?” Marcus asked, his eyes narrowing. “You barely slept last night.”
“I’ll be fine.” I looked around the valley. “Go get some sleep. I’ll keep w
