The final day began in a strange silence. The sky above the Sanctuary was a pale grey, almost white, as if the stars themselves were holding their breath. Kael stood near the arch, hands behind his back, eyes fixed on the invisible barrier.
Kira approached.
"You're an early riser."
"I didn't sleep."
"Classic."
"I was thinking."
"About what?"
"About everything that was said. The shadows. The dreams. What's coming."
"Do you believe the other kings?"
"I believe Osskar and Lyssa. They're the oldest. They don't speak without reason."
"So what do we do?"
"We go home. Reinforce the defenses. Warn Serya."
"And then?"
"Then we wait."
"Wait for what?"
"The first sign."
The morning stretched on. The kings emerged one by one from their quarters. Some stretched, others stared at the barrier with impatience. Varka took a few steps, placed his hand on the invisible surface, grunted.
"Still there."
"A few more hours," said Osskar.
"I can't wait."
"We all can't wait."
Sylva crouched near the arch, like a predator ready to pounce. Her green eyes gleamed with impatient fire.
"As soon as this thing falls, I'm leaving."
"Where?" asked Kael.
"To my forest. The air here is too still."
"Won't you come see my lands?"
"Later. When the shadows have shown their faces."
"Then see you later."
"Yes. And prepare yourself, Demon King. Shadows love kings who doubt."
"I don't doubt."
"That's worse. They'll come anyway."
She moved away with a fluid step.
Selyna approached Kael.
"You look worried."
"I'm cautious."
"It's the same thing."
"No."
"Yes. Caution is controlled worry."
"Then I'm controlled."
"That's why you're dangerous."
"I'm told that often."
"I can see it."
She handed him a small vial.
"What is it?"
"Water from my lakes. It soothes the mind."
"I don't need soothing."
"Then keep it. You may need it later."
Kael took the vial, slipped it into his pocket.
"Thank you."
"Don't thank me. It's a gift."
"Gifts always have a price."
"Sometimes it's just a smile."
"I don't smile on command."
"Pity."
She walked away, laughing softly.
Maëldor, for his part, stayed apart, arms crossed, face closed. He spoke to no one. His eyes never left Kael.
"He's watching you," said Kira.
"I know."
"He won't try anything here."
"No. But outside, it'll be different."
"You think he'll attack?"
"Not right away. He's lost too much."
"Then why is he staring at you like that?"
"Because he's looking for a weakness."
"And he won't find one."
"No."
Finally, the spell dissipated.
The barrier trembled, wavered, then vanished in a pale breath. The air became free again.
"Finally," Varka grunted.
He left first, followed by Brok. The other kings followed, each on their own side, without another word.
Kael and Kira were among the last.
"Let's go home," said Kael.
"Yes."
"The kingdom needs us."
"And the shadows?"
"They'll come. But we'll be ready."
They mounted their horses and left the Sanctuary.
Behind them, the statues still wept.