Erend's mind raced as he explained the dire situation to his mother and sister. The weight of his responsibility bore down on him, but their presence gave him the strength to face the coming storm. He knew he had to leave them soon, but he needed them to understand and stay safe.
"Arty, Mom. I need you both to stay here and wait for me a little longer while I deal with this. It's going to be dangerous, and I don't want you involved in any of the danger," Erend said with clear urgency in his voice.
Arty clung to his arm, her eyes showing a lot of signs of worry. "But, Erend, what if something happens to you?"
Erend smiled, "I'll be fine. I promise. I have friends who will help me, and I won't let anything happen to you or Mom."
"We'll be here waiting for you. Just come back to us safely, son," said his mom, with eyes placed on his shoulder.
