Chapter 30 - The Pillar of Flame (2/2)

I listened to the conversations among the mages. What I heard shocked me. I felt my stomach revolt against itself.

”What was that flame?”

”I don't know. It was clearly unnatural.”

”I was outside. I think I saw the person.”

”Who was it?”

”I am not sure. It looked like Mordred, but… scaly.”

”Mordred? That crazy art fanatic from Shira?”

”Yes. That Mordred…”

I wandered away aimlessly. First Xavier, now Mordred. There was to much to process. Eventually, I walked in front of Solskin. He had a mournful look on his face, his eyes darkened by grief. It was safe to ȧssume that he was thinking about Mordred. I opened my mouth to tell him what I heard. Then I stopped. I didn't want to give him a sense of false hope. I knew he was dead.

I desperately wanted to believe the mages, but it was probably someone else. Mordred didn't have scales. I tried to let go of my own hopes, but I couldn't. My selfish dėsɨrės overcame me, driving me to look drive. I gave in, but resolved to do it secretly. I wouldn't drag anyone else into the depths of despair. The others already had a lot on their plates.

I looked up into the cloudy sky, the beginnings of rain in the clouds, casting the entire world in a bleak overtone. Off in the distance, raindrops were falling. I sent a quick prayer to the gods, readying myself for the ordeal ahead. With the weight of the world on my shoulders, I slowly trudged my way back to the inn with the others, silently pondering.

While I was lost in thought, someone else began following us. Bow in hand, he stalked us like prey, with conflicted intention in his eyes.