I step out beside Syd into the basement at Wilding Springs to a larger crowd of magic beings than I was expecting. Sage rushes forward to hug me while a dozen drach hover in the background, Max standing with Quaid and Miriam, Shenka staying out of the way. I hug my love, welcome his kiss, grateful my friends give me a moment to share a quiet reunion with him.

It's going to be okay, he sends. I already talked to Max. His mind shivers while his ...