Tears of midnight Crystal

Chapter 10

Hestia and Aryx found themselves deep in the heart of the forest as dusk settled into night. What started as a routine exploration turned dire when Aryx stumbled on a hidden root, twisting his ankle badly. Hestia rushed to his side, her heart sinking as she assessed the injury—it was swollen and painful, making it impossible for Aryx to put weight on it.

"I'm sorry, Aryx," Hestia murmured, her voice tinged with worry. "My healing isn't enough to give you strength to walk."

Aryx winced, gritting his teeth against the pain. "It's alright, Hestia," he replied, forcing a smile. "I'll manage."

But Hestia knew he wouldn't. The forest grew darker around them, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch towards them menacingly. Night sounds filled the air, a chorus of rustling leaves and distant animal calls. Aryx's breathing grew ragged, his face drawn with discomfort.

Hestia bit her lip, torn between staying with Aryx and seeking help. She glanced around, hoping for a solution that would magically appear in the dense woods. But the reality was stark—they were alone, with only the forest and its secrets for company.

"I can't leave you here," Hestia finally said, her voice determined. "We'll find a way."

Aryx nodded weakly, his gaze flickering with gratitude. "Thank you, Hestia," he whispered.

With a deep breath, Hestia settled beside Aryx, wrapping her arms around him to offer what little warmth she could. She scanned the surroundings, her mind racing for a plan. Suddenly, she remembered a secluded grove not far from where they were—a place her mother had spoken of, where healing plants grew abundantly.

"I have an idea," Hestia said, her voice brightening with hope. "There's a grove nearby known for its healing plants. If we can get there, maybe we can find something to help."

Aryx nodded weakly, his trust in Hestia unwavering. Together, they embarked on a slow, painstaking journey through the darkening forest. Hestia supported Aryx as he hobbled along, his injured ankle causing him visible pain with each step.

The grove was closer than they had expected, bathed in a soft, ethereal glow as they entered. Hestia's heart lifted at the sight of lush foliage and vibrant flowers, their healing properties potent in the cool night air. She guided Aryx to a patch of soft moss beneath a towering oak tree, urging him to rest while she searched for the remedies they needed.

Hours passed as Hestia gathered herbs and plants, her hands moving swiftly and surely. She brewed a potion with steady hands, carefully applying it to Aryx's injured ankle. The healing magic of the forest responded to her touch, soothing inflammation and promoting swift recovery.

As dawn broke over the horizon, Aryx stirred awake beneath the protective canopy of the healing grove. His ankle, once swollen and throbbing with pain, now felt remarkably better thanks to Hestia's diligent care and the potency of the forest's healing plants. He blinked up at Hestia, who sat nearby, her expression a mixture of relief and exhaustion.

"Good morning," Aryx greeted softly, his voice still hoarse from the ordeal of the night before.

Hestia looked up, her eyes brightening with a smile. "Good morning, Aryx," she replied warmly. "Kamusta ang sugat mo?"

Aryx gingerly tested his injured ankle, surprised at the minimal discomfort he now felt. "Better," he admitted gratefully. "Thanks to you and this amazing grove."

Hestia's cheeks flushed with pride, though she waved off the compliment modestly. "Wala lang yon." she murmured, focusing on tidying up their makeshift camp. "I'm just glad we found this place in time."

They sat in companionable silence for a while, soaking in the tranquility of the healing grove. The air was crisp and filled with the scent of earth and herbs, a stark contrast to the tension and uncertainty of the previous night. Aryx couldn't help but admire Hestia's determination and resilience, marveling at her ability to navigate the forest with such grace and skill.

"You know," Aryx began hesitantly, breaking the silence, "I never properly thanked you for saving me back there."

Hestia glanced at him, her expression softening. "You don't need to thank me," she replied earnestly. "I couldn't just leave you."

Aryx smiled warmly, grateful for her steadfastness. "Still," he insisted, "I owe you my life."

Their eyes met, and in that moment, Aryx sensed a deeper connection forming between them. He admired Hestia's strength and compassion, traits that resonated deeply with his own values. Perhaps, he thought, their meeting in the forest was more than just chance—it was a bond forged through adversity and mutual respect.

As they prepared to leave the grove and return home, Aryx couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning of their journey together. He vowed to repay Hestia's kindness and support, knowing that their shared experiences had bound them in ways that surpassed mere friendship.

With the first rays of sunlight filtering through the canopy above, Aryx and Hestia set off through the forest once more. Their footsteps echoed softly in the quiet morning, carrying them towards a future filled with possibilities—and a newfound understanding of each other's strengths and vulnerabilities.