Gray stood silently for a moment longer, staring at the bloody mess that was once his father. Then he turned to Alina.
"I'll see you soon," he said simply.
Alina smiled softly, stepping forward to gently fix the collar of his blood-stained shirt. Her violet eyes were filled with quiet affection.
"Take care of yourself until then, little brother. Don't push yourself too hard."
She leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his forehead before stepping back.
With one last lingering look, she turned and disappeared into the shadows of the tunnel, leaving Gray alone.
Gray exhaled slowly, then began walking back the way he came.
When he emerged from the underground passage and stepped into the ruined courtyard of the manor, Aurora was already waiting for him.
The moment she saw him, her red eyes lit up with excitement and relief.
"You're back!" she exclaimed happily.
