The house was silent when Gabriel stepped out of his room, quiet in a way that felt intentional, as if the walls themselves were holding their breath.
Night had fallen over Eldenreach, but pockets of stray lanternlight still cut through the darkness in sharp, pale bursts.
Below, Tess and Mera waited at the foot of the stairs, eyes fixed on the opening, bracing for the moment his silhouette appeared. They didn't speak. Their eyes followed him the way prey follows the shadows of a predator.
He descended.
No words, no hesitation.
The weight of his swords shifted gently on his back with each stride, the familiar rhythm of metal on leather clicking softly.
His own heartbeat didn't echo it.
It was calmer.
Tess let out a gentle sigh as he reached the last step. "Gabriel…" she began, voice confused.
He didn't stop to look at her, only brushed past gently.
