When the pair got back to Mudstone, it was barely evening. However, Sion did not return from the village chief's residence even after night fell.

Lyra walked out of her room, looking anxiously in the direction of the chief's place.

"Why are you out here? Go back to your room!" Lyra's mother shouted.

Lyra’s mother, Jess, was usually of few words. Adrian had not heard her speak much, and she would not initiate conversations with him. However, she was noticeably more talkative today due to her w