Kael and his group made no move to further question him. The camp grew quiet once more. They all knew the look of grief when they saw it. No spell, no healing salve, could mend a wound that ran through the soul.
The fire crackled softly, throwing wavering shadows across their faces. Somewhere beyond the ring of light, a night bird called out, then fell silent again.
Gram didn't know how long he sat there. The world around him felt distant, as though muffled behind a wall of sorrow. Eventually, he pushed himself to his feet, the motion slow and uncertain. He bowed his head toward the group, his voice rough but steady.
"Thank you for saving me," he said. "I have nothing on me to repay such a debt."
