The next scene formed almost abruptly. But neither Kael nor Lance were surprised by the next scene. However, by the end of it, they were bound to be shocked.
Zen sat shivering in a corner of their house. His clothes were rumpled, his small hands clutching the hem of his shirt, his grey eyes almost red due to crying and his shoulders trembling.
Around him, people rushed about, all speaking at once, all searching for one name.
Kael.
Their father stood at the centre, commanding loudly. "Send out another team toward the eastern border. Take the best hunters. Leave no trace unchecked."
One of the warriors bowed quickly before running out while another came in with hurried steps, reporting that there were tracks near the stream but no scent of Kael yet.
"Keep looking," his father said again, his tone cold enough to make the man bow lower before retreating.
