As the days passed, the warriors of Frosthaven focused on rebuilding their home and their lives. Apollo, though reunited with Iris, couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal that lingered in his mind. The identity of the betrayer gnawed at him, casting a shadow over his happiness.
Meanwhile, BA wrestled with his own demons. He had seen Apollo fight for Iris, and it had forced him to confront his own feelings. The desire for revenge that had once burned brightly within him had been extinguished by the reality of the battle and the strength of their unity. As he watched Apollo and Iris together, BA realized that his love for Apollo was best honored by supporting him, not seeking vengeance.
One cold evening, BA approached Apollo, who was deep in thought by the fire. “Apollo, there’s something you need to know,” BA began, his voice steady but filled with emotion.
Apollo looked up, surprise and curiosity in his eyes. “What is it, BA?”
“I know who Iris is. I’ve known for a while,” BA confessed. “I wanted to hurt you, to make you feel the pain I felt. But seeing you fight for her, for us, I realized that revenge wasn’t what I wanted. I wanted to see you happy.”
Apollo’s eyes widened in shock. “You knew? Why didn’t you tell me?”
BA sighed, the weight of his emotions evident. “I was hurt, Apollo. I didn’t know how to handle it. But seeing you two together, I knew I had to tell you. You deserve to be happy.”
As BA’s words sank in, Apollo felt a mix of gratitude and guilt. “Thank you, BA. I understand now. And I’m sorry for the pain I’ve caused you.”
Rost, who had been listening from a distance, stepped forward. “We’ve all faced our battles, Apollo. But we’ve also found something worth fighting for.”
Rost’s words resonated deeply with Apollo. The betrayal he had felt was overshadowed by the strength of their friendship and the love they had all found. The bonds they had forged in the heat of battle were unbreakable, and they were stronger together.
As they stood by the fire, the warriors of Frosthaven knew that their journey was far from over. They had emerged victorious, but the future held new challenges and mysteries. With Iris by his side and the unwavering support of his friends, Apollo felt ready to face whatever lay ahead.
But even as they found solace in their unity, the shadows of the past continued to linger. The identity of the betrayer remained a mystery, and the threat of Feanor’s return loomed over them. As they prepared for the next chapter of their journey, they knew that the light of love and courage would guide them through the darkness.
