The first week after Kael's death, Sera barely moved.
She stayed in their quarters. Surrounded by his things. His scent. The ghost of his presence. The phantom bond whispered in the background. So faint she couldn't tell if it was real or wishful thinking.
Emma brought food. Sera didn't eat it.
Daniel brought reports. Sera didn't read them.
Luna sat with her in silence. That helped. Slightly.
"You need to come back," Emma said on day eight. "The Vigil needs leadership. Valeria's attacks have stopped but people are panicking. Governments are demanding answers. We're losing ground every day you're not there."
"I can't."
"You have to. You promised him. Promised you'd keep going."
"I lied."
Through the phantom bond, Sera felt disapproval. Disappointment. Kael's emotions. Impossible but there.
Get up, the bond seemed to say. I didn't die so you could waste away.
