CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-SEVEN - STOLEN KISSES

The next morning dawned clear and cold, the Arctic sun casting long shadows across the snow-covered landscape. The group rose early, their movements efficient as they broke camp and prepared for the final leg of their journey. As they shouldered their packs and double-checked their equipment, there was a palpable sense of determination in the air. This was what they had come for, what they had endured so much to achieve. Erik stood at the edge of their campsite, his eyes fixed on the horizon. The cove where the Arctic Moonflower was said to grow lay just beyond the next ridge. So close, yet still fraught with unknown dangers. Anna came to stand beside him, slipping her hand into his. "Are you ready?" she asked softly. Erik turned to look at her, his eyes filled with a mixture of hope and resolve. "As ready as I'll ever be," he replied. "With you by my side, I feel like I can face anything." Anna smiled, squeezing his hand. "Then let's go save your brother." Freya and Arryk joined