Vlad informed them to rest for the next day. "Lucian will be appearing tomorrow, and the operation will start then." His crimson eyes swept across them one final time. "Prepare yourselves. What comes next will test everything you are."
They returned to the inn as evening approached, and the common room was quieter than usual.
Townspeople eating in subdued silence, processing the day's violence and the rumors already spreading about the Star Jewel.
Reinhard entered after Janus entered first and stopped. Reinhard looked past him to see Nigen standing near the counter with a tired expression mixed with hope. Then he saw Nigen shift his gaze before his eyes lit up, and he rushed over.
Nigen crossed the room in quick strides and pulled Janus into a tight embrace. His arms wrapped around his son, holding him as if he might disappear. "I'm glad you're safe and back."
