59
Hugh felt solemn as his and Dale’s departure neared. What lie ahead was difficult, but so was saying goodbye.
The evening before they left, his father held a special dinner in their honor, prepared with all the finest foods, including a large helping of narfbog.
No Dragon’s Breath was served, much to his relief.
It was a subdued affair, and they all ate quietly, enjoying each other’s company for the last time. His mother didn’t glow as brightly as usual, neither did Mira. His father was as pleasant as always, but kept to himself.
No one felt the need to talk. There was something unspoken between them. Simply being in each other’s presence was enough.
Hugh poked at his food, feeling torn about leaving.
He felt time growing short, closing in on him like another cage. He had so desp
