A few days before Kyle's return, Racheal found herself growing increasingly restless.
She had tried to stay busy—fetching water, helping with food preparation, sitting by her brother's bedside.
But despite her efforts, something gnawed at her, an unease that refused to leave. It wasn't just worry for Rin's condition. It was… something else.
A presence, a whisper, brushing against the back of her mind like a breeze barely strong enough to notice, yet always there.
Stranger still, she'd been approached several times lately by unfamiliar villagers—soft-spoken people dressed in white and gold, always offering gentle smiles and subtle invitations.
"Come with us to pray."
"The goddess welcomes everyone, especially those with troubled hearts."
"The gods can ease your burden, child."
Each time, Racheal had turned them away. She wasn't interested in religion—especially not now.
What she needed was real change, real healing, not hollow words and sermons.
