**The Cost of Salvation**

Gracie's memories of that fateful day still lingered in her mind like an open wound. The sound of rushing water, the feeling of desperation, and the sight of Zatz's lifeless body slipping beneath the surface of the river. She had acted on instinct, diving into the churning waters to save the love of her life. With a Herculean effort, she had managed to pull Zatz to safety, but not without sustaining a terrible injury. As she recalled the searing pain and the darkness that had followed, her hand involuntarily rose to the eyepatch that covered her left socket. The temple's tranquil gardens provided a serene backdrop for Gracie's recovery. The warm sun on her skin and the gentle chirping of birds were a balm to her frazzled nerves. Zatz had brought her to this sacred place, seeking the expertise of the temple's skilled healers. Gracie had lost her left eye in the rescue, but Zatz had saved her life, and for that, she was eternally grateful. As she sat on a bench, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, Gracie felt a gentle tug on her hand. It was Zatz, his eyes filled with concern and affection. "You're strong, Gracie," he said softly. "But I know it's not easy. You're adjusting to a new reality." Gracie nodded, her ponytail bobbing slightly. She had grown accustomed to her new limitation, but it still felt surreal. The eyepatch was a constant reminder of what she had lost. The high priestess approached them, a warm smile on her face. "Gracie, your treatment is progressing well. You're welcome to stay here for as long as you need." Gracie smiled weakly, her brown eyes searching for something that was no longer there. "Thank you. I appreciate it." Zatz squeezed her hand. "There's something else. Our son, Julian, is two now. He's curious and full of energy. I think it's time you met him." Gracie's heart skipped a beat. She had heard stories about Julian, but she had yet to meet the little boy who had captured Zatz's heart. The priestess led them to a playroom filled with toys and colorful tapestries. Gracie's eyes widened as she spotted Julian, his dark hair messy and his bright eyes sparkling with curiosity. But as she took a step forward, her robes got tangled, and she stumbled. Her eyepatch slipped, revealing the sealed socket of her missing eye. Julian's eyes widened in terror, and he let out a blood-curdling scream. He turned and ran, hiding behind a pillar as he wailed. Gracie felt a stinging sensation in her eyes as tears welled up. She had never felt so defeated. Zatz enveloped her in a warm hug, holding her close as she cried. That night, in their bedroom, Gracie lay on her side, her face buried in a pillow. Zatz sat beside her, his hand gently stroking her hair. Julian was fast asleep in his crib, but Gracie couldn't shake off the feeling of sadness. Zatz's voice broke the silence. "Gracie, I need to tell you something." She turned to him, her one eye searching for answers. Zatz's hand rose to his own eyepatch, and he hesitated for a moment before removing it. Underneath, Gracie saw a strange symbol etched into his skin, pulsing with a soft, blue light. "What is that?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Zatz's eyes locked onto hers, filled with a deep love and a hint of secrecy. "It's a mark of our people's ancient magic. I'll tell you more about it soon, but for now, let's just say it's a part of who we are." As Gracie's gaze lingered on the symbol, she felt a sense of wonder and trepidation. What secrets lay hidden beneath the surface of her husband's mysterious past? And what lay in store for their little family?