The moonbrew den had not changed. Wooden tables worn smooth by time, low lantern light, soft music humming through rune charms. The scent of herbs and roasted meat filled the air, mixed with memories I was unsure I wanted to reclaim.
I watched Alden and Draven laugh, as we once had and for a brief moment, it almost felt… bearable.
Then Alden’s crystal communicator glowed. He glanced at it and froze.
“It is Selene,” he said under his breath, frowning.
“What? Speak clearly… attacked? By the rogues? Where are you?” His voice sharpened as he rose abruptly.
In moments, both Alden and Draven were standing.
“She is crying,” Alden explained, tension tight in his voice. “She was harmed. We must go to her.”
There were no farewells. No glance toward me. They rushed out, as though the Moon Goddess herself had called them.
I remained seated, staring at untouched food, the small lantern flame slowly fading. I paid the moon-credits myself.