When the call ends unanswered, another sharp buzz cuts through the tension.
Kieran answers without hesitation this time, and he puts it on speaker.
The voice that comes through is urgent, almost frantic. "Kieran. Where have you both gone? We can't find any of you around here! Anyway, the way I told you the other day that Rehan was sick… it's gotten worse. His sickness has gone too far. He might not last long. And you people need to be here."
A beat of silence.
Then...
"Why should we? Let him shine on his way," Rey snaps, his voice sharp, edged with years of hatred. His wolf bristles at the mere mention of Rehan's name. Mixing with his current emotional problems. "No one gives a shit about that power-greedy man. All he ever did was dream of destruction!"
Marsel exhales heavily. "I understand how you feel people feel about him, but there's something he insists he really needs to tell you. Especially you, Kieran. And Ace."