52 Waves on a River (2/3)

Elara took a step forward and reached out towards Aiden, her hand hovering between them, offering solace in the dimming light. "I know you're feeling uncomfortable," she began, her voice soft yet laced with an underlying determination, "but I have an idea."

Aiden turned to face Elara, the moonlight casting his features into sharp relief against the night's canvas. His eyes, usually so clear and expressive, were clouded over with frustration and something else Elara couldn't quite decipher—was it fear, uncertainty, or perhaps a sense of inadequacy? The sight tugged at her heart, a silent plea for her to bridge the gap his words could not.

Elara exhaled, a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding, and ventured, "Do you remember the Great Library of Rivervale? It's a treasure trove of knowledge, with books on everything imaginable. There might be something there to help you find the answers you're looking for."