and Elyra couldn't shake the feeling that the forest itself was testing them.

The forest grew denser as they ventured deeper, the trees pressing in around them like a living labyrinth. The air was thick, carrying an unnatural weight that made every step feel harder. The once-soft whispers of the portal's pull had grown sharper, almost demanding, Matthew's footsteps faltered, and Elyra hurried to his side, her heart tightening at the pallor of his face. He leaned heavily on her, his breaths labored. "You're not as young as you used to be," he joked weakly, but Elyra couldn't bring herself to laugh.

"We can't keep pushing him like this," Elyra told Dain that evening as they prepared their small camp. Her voice cracked as she fought back tears. "What if he doesn't make it? What if—"

Dain rested a hand on her shoulder, his voice firm but gentle. "We're close, Elyra. I can feel it, too. We'll find the portal, and we'll get him somewhere safe. I promise."

Dain's confidence gave her some measure of comfort, but she could see the flicker of doubt in his eyes, a shadow that he tried to hide.

As Dain ventured ahead to scout, Elyra stayed behind with Matthew, helping him settle near the fire. He smiled at her, the expression soft despite his weariness. "You've always looked out for me," she said, her voice trembling. "I don't know what I'd do without you." Matthew reached out, his hand clasping hers. "You're stronger than you think, Elyra," he said, his voice steady despite his weakened state. "You've grown into someone I'm proud to call my daughter. Don't ever forget that."

Tears welled in her eyes as she squeezed his hand. The forest around them seemed to hush for a moment, the gravity of the moment heavy in the air.noveldrama

Then, in the distance, a faint hum echoed through the trees-the same pull that had been guiding them-but this time, it felt closer. Elyra's heart quickened. "We're going to make it," she whispered, though whether she was trying to convince Matthew or herself, she wasn't sure.