"The cure," Dezyne said, voice quieter now. "The one someone told me never to use unless absolutely necessary."
Devon's brows knitted. "The seal?"
Dezyne shook his head.
"No. Something stronger. Something father left behind in his journals before he died." Dezyne's fingers tightened around the vial. "Something meant to stabilize our bloodlines when the ancient magic becomes too much."
Devon stared at him. "You came here… just to give me that?"
"No." Dezyne's eyes flashed. "I came here because I felt your core crushing itself. From across the kingdoms, Devon. Do you understand how catastrophic that is?"
Devon didn't answer. Dezyne exhaled shakily. Anger drained from his face, replaced by something raw. Something he rarely showed.
I smell fear...
"I won't lose you," Dezyne whispered. "Not to your own stupidity. Not to ancient magic. Not to fate. I refuse."
Devon's breath shook.
If not for the shared memories, I wouldn't even remember you, Brother...
