Caius' POV
Six people, myself included, sat inside the shaded cave.
Several hours had already passed since Elliot's arrival, and after he had rested enough, we gathered here.
And let me say—Elliot's arrival was wonderful.
Not because he was strong or anything like that, but because of what now stood near the cave's entrance.
Large chunks of ice. The hot desert air passed through them and turned into a cool breeze that eased the cave's heat.
As a result, staying here had become comfortable.
I looked around to find Kyle sitting in the corner, fiddling with his arrows, while Izel stood leaning against the wall.
Leona was still seated with a core stone in her hand, and the hero himself was also sitting, his back resting against the wall.
I did the same, a essence stone in my hand, while Ellen stood with her arms folded. She wanted to say something, but hesitation was clear on her face—and not just hers, but everyone's as well.
After a while, Ellen finally spoke.
