The following day, the official order arrived, sealed with the emperor's crest. It left no room for negotiation.
As Elias packed his belongings, he couldn't shake the feeling of dread that had settled in his chest. The system had gone quiet, which somehow made him feel even worse.
When it was time to leave, Aedric and Selene came to see him off. Aedric looked sullen, his arms crossed tightly over his chest, while Selene stood with her chin held high, though her eyes betrayed her sadness.
"Don't forget about us," Aedric muttered, his voice low.
Elias smiled softly. "I could never forget about you."
"And don't let those temple people boss you around," Selene added. "You're stronger than they think."
Elias nodded, his throat too tight to speak.
As he walked away, he could feel their eyes on his back. He didn't turn around, afraid that if he did, he wouldn't be able to keep walking.
