"ASTRA!" Chai's screams bring me back to the present. Astra is lying in Chai's arms, both of them covered in blood. I can guess whose. "You're not hurt, are you?" Astra's voice is weak and interrupted by coughing blood. Chai hugs her tight. "No... we can... we'll find a healer... somebody!" All the elves have drawn a tight circle around the scene, but not one of them steps forwards to help. Why would they? They never believed Astra was a part of their camp. "Don't hate me... for leaving..." Chai shakes her head. "I could never. I'm sorry you spent your life looking after me and my stupid dreams and - " " - and I would do it all over again. Dreams aren't stupid, Chai. Yours are..." she smiles softly. "Beautiful..." Tears stream down Chai's face. "Please don't leave. Please, please, please." "You were always so kind to me. From the moment I entered your camp you gave me a place to stay. You treated me like a human." Astra gives one last deep breath. "I love you." she whispers. "I love you too." The brightness fades from her eyes. The surrounding elves touch their fists to their hearts, a sign of respect. Ekko gently touches Chai's shoulder. "Why didn't you help her?" she whispers, voice trembling. "You all know the runes, WHY DIDN'T YOU HELP HER?"