C198 WHEN SILENCE BREAKS FIRST

The first cry did not come from the forest.

It came from inside the village.

Not fear.

Not pain.

Recognition.

Aria froze mid-step, the basket slipping slightly in her hands as sound rippled over the street like a stone thrown into quiet water. Doors swung open. Voices followed—sharp, confused, increasing too quickly for a regular disturbance.

Elara was already moving.

“Stay,” she urged