Even if she heard him, Shail realized there was no way to know. She wouldn't just burst out repeating his name like a loon. She wasn't going to use it against him now because why now? He bit his lip. He didn't like not knowing, but he didn't want to ask either. So much of the night already passed at this point, but he didn't feel tired after his nap earlier. Being in a cave didn't help, the night's darkness so far away from his senses. In here, candles lit the way, giving a warm glow that rivaled home. But he already told Gemini that this wouldn't be home for him. Tucking his knees under his chin, he let out a sigh.

"Come and rescue me already," he muttered. "Or do you not pray by my bedside anymore?" Was that something reserved only for sick children? Was he already dead to them?

But news of Shail's capture had spread through the village. Together, the elders sat together, discussing what they would do.