Outside, Kaelix was leaning against the wall, his arms crossed, his face a mask of worry and exhaustion. Cedric paused, placing a hand on Kaelix's arm.
"You're doing all you can," Cedric said reassuringly. "But grief is a battle only he can fight. All we can do is be there for him when he's ready."
Kaelix nodded, though his eyes remained fixed on the door. "I just, I don't know how to reach him anymore. It's like he's slipping further away every day."
Cedric's gaze softened. "You have to stay strong, Kaelix. For him and for yourself. And I think it's time we all returned home. Eirik needs his mother now more than ever. Her guidance and love might be the anchor he needs to pull himself out of this darkness."
Kaelix hesitated, his brow furrowing. "Do you think it's too soon? What if the journey is too much for him?"
