Chapter39: The Weight of Unbearable Tension

*Maerilee* The silence between us is palpable, as if everyone is holding their tongue but projecting their thoughts to the clouds. No one is willing to break the silence, to put their thoughts to words, and it’s becoming infuriating. I worry that Akin is still angry with me, despite his stance to leave Caelan and travel with us. River is smug, as usual, though I have no idea what he could be thinking. Brook leads us with confidence and certainty, and while I don’t doubt him, it’s clear that Akin and River do. I glance at Akin, hoping to find some sign of reassurance, something to tell me that all is forgiven. But his face is closed off, his jaw clenched as he stares straight ahead, shoulders rigid. I don’t need words to know what he’s feeling. Disappointment radiates off him like a pulse. For the first time since I’ve known him, a sort of rift has formed between us. And for all his quiet strength, for all the years I’ve trusted him to stand by my side, right now he feels distant, like