CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-FOUR - THIN ICE

Anna smiled sadly. "You can't promise that. None of us know what's going to happen out here. But Ethan, he's counting on you. On all of us. His life depends on us finding that flower." Erik was silent for a long moment, struggling with the implications of what Anna was asking. Finally, he nodded slowly. "Okay," he said, his voice rough with emotion. "I promise. But you have to promise me something too." "What's that?" Anna asked. "Promise me you'll fight. With everything you have. Because I don't want to imagine a future without you in it." Anna's eyes welled with tears. She leaned in, pressing her forehead against Erik's. "I promise," she whispered. They sat like that for a long time, drawing strength and comfort from each other's presence. The challenges ahead were daunting, the dangers real and ever-present. But in that moment, by the flickering light of the campfire, they found a measure of peace in their shared commitment – to the mission, to Erik's brother, and to each other