Kamal remained behind after Severin and Mezos left to prepare for the departure.
Liam noticed first.
The older man stood beneath the stone pavilion with one hand resting against the carved railing, his dark coat falling in severe lines around him while the last of the evening light disappeared behind the mountains. From there, the mausoleum entrance was still visible through the trees, pale columns half concealed by saint's breath and climbing silver vines.
Kamal had not looked away from it.
Arik did.
Liam glanced between them and quietly released Arik's hand.
"I'll find Mezos."
Arik looked at him.
Liam's crimson eyes softened with understanding.
"I am not going far."
That was apparently the condition required for Arik to let him leave without argument.
Liam walked toward the upper terrace, his black coat disappearing between the columns.
Only then did Kamal speak.
"I thought I could save her."
Arik's attention returned to him.
Kamal did not sound broken.
