The sun had almost disappeared behind the misty mountains, casting long shadows across the valley. Inglada and him stood silently, the quiet between them now charged with unspoken words and lingering emotions.
A sudden rustle came from the trees nearby. Both turned instinctively, alert, hearts pounding. A figure emerged from the shadows — not hostile, but familiar. It was someone from their past, someone who carried secrets they thought long buried.
"You… you shouldn't be here," he said, his voice low but steady.
The figure smiled faintly, eyes glinting in the fading light. "Destiny has a way of bringing people together… whether they want it or not."
Inglada felt a shiver run down her spine. She glanced at him; he clenched his fists, not from fear, but from the determination to protect her. The valley seemed to hold its breath, the temple bells now fading into the distance, leaving only the soft whisper of wind around them.
For the first time in what felt like eternity, they both realized something profound: forgiveness had opened a door, but the past — and the shadows of their choices — was not yet finished with them.
Yet, as their hands brushed, a silent promise passed between them: whatever came next, they would face it together.