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[sub]Interactions/Mentions: [@c3p-0h] Amaya[/sub][hr]
[indent]Elara guided Amaya through the hushed streets of Dawnhaven's residential area, the frost-laden air nipping at her cheeks like an uninvited guest, awakening her senses to the chill that permeated the night. Each hurried step echoed in the stillness, the sharp clacks of their boots softening as the cobblestones surrendered to the yielding embrace of the soft dirt, which crunched subtly underfoot, releasing the faint scent of damp earth. Ahead, her cottage loomed from the guardianship of towering pines, ancient sentinels cloaked in shimmering frost, each one brimming with silent promises of sanctuary from the biting cold. 

The small cottage, though modest and unassuming when compared to the imposing estates of the nobility, radiated an inviting charm. Its weathered timber frame and sturdy stone base, darkened by the few winter storms they’d had thus far, seemed to breathe warmth, especially with the golden glow spilling from the windows. The thatched roof, cloaked in a fresh blanket of snow, sloped as if bowing to the earth beneath. A small porch, its railing slightly askew from age, displayed a few potted plants whose skeletal branches twisted in the breeze, clinging desperately to the last remnants of life (Elara was gifted at many things. Gardening was not one of them). Lanterns flickered at either side of the heavy wooden door, sending shadows dancing over the frosted path before them. 

As they approached, Elara cast a nervous glance at Amaya. While she was more than willing to temporarily keep her friend safe after what they’d just experienced, this would be the first time since moving here that she’d ever invited her into her home. 

“[color=royalblue]We’ll be safe here for now,[/color]” she murmured, her voice as soft as the snowflakes falling around them. Yet, the subtle tension still present in her shoulders reminded her that safety was often a fleeting illusion.

Reaching the door, Elara hesitated for the briefest moment before pushing it open.[/indent]