*Kryzen*

I watched Briella disappear into the trees after Drius. I wanted to stop her, chase after her, or something. But this farewell was important to her. He had left without a goodbye. I understood she needed the closure, but it gnawed at my insides.

As time pushed on, the moon’s light continuing to fade, Briella had not returned. Worry settled deep in my bones. There were dangers out there, things she couldn’t—and shouldn’t—face on her own. Despite ...