Vengeance Beneath the Moonlight

Marcus glanced to his left.

Ethan was sound asleep, completely oblivious to the chaos that had unfolded earlier. Even if someone carried him away, he likely wouldn't notice.

"Did I... perhaps cause any trouble for you, Senior Brother?" asked Vera, her voice hesitant.

"No, I just noticed you were struggling and decided to keep watch," replied Marcus calmly.

Only then did Vera let out a sigh of relief. Marcus silently observed her. She wasn't a bad child. He had never seen her display cruelty or malice.

And yet, the words she had muttered in her nightmare were horrifying.

'Something must have happened,' he thought.

Without another word, Marcus stood, donned his outer robe, and stepped outside the tent.

"It's cold out here. Make sure to dress warmly before coming out," he called back.

"Yes, Senior Brother..." Vera responded softly.