Varen walked into camp like he'd never been hurt at all.
I nearly dropped my water flask when I saw him. "Varen! You're back!"
He grinned, spreading his arms. "Missed me?"
"Are you insane? You should still be resting."
"I've rested enough." He sat down across from me, his movements fluid and easy. "The healers cleared me this morning. Said I was fully healed."
"That's impossible. You were dying three days ago."
"I was. And then you did your phoenix thing and now I'm fine." He leaned forward. "I've been meaning to thank you, by the way. For saving my life."
"You don't have to thank me."
"Too late. I already did."
I laughed. It felt good. Too good. Everything felt too good lately, like the calm before a storm.
Kairos appeared from the command tent, his eyes narrowing when he saw Va
