Chapter 175: Sunstone (2)

As the hours passed, night settled over Mount Sidus, bringing with it a serene and tranquil ambiance. The gentle breeze that swept through the area added to the sense of calm, making it a peaceful contrast to the earlier tension. Despite the peaceful weather, the group's mood remained heavy and sluggish. Conversation was sparse, and the thought of leaving the mountain seemed distant, even as the hours ticked by. Most of the group had succumbed to exhaustion, with the exception of a few. Ophelia, exhausted from the day's events, had found solace in Nikolai's arms. She had curled up on his lap, soundly asleep, her breathing steady and calm. Nikolai cradled her gently, his expression softening as he looked down at her. In contrast, the atmosphere among the others was a mix of banter and brooding. Sasha, ever the instigator, occasionally teased Vladmir about his current predicament. Her remarks often sparked arguments, adding a bit of life to the otherwise subdued environment. Esmeralda