Adams stood where Kieran had been a moment ago. The bridge was empty now. The Core pulsed slow and quiet.
He let out a long sigh. His hand brushed the air once, and it shimmered faintly.
Four shapes appeared. Jack, Jameson, Elamenor, and Erren.
They looked around, confused but calm.
Jack was the first to speak. "Where's the kid?"
"Gone," Adams said.
Jack frowned. "Gone where?"
Adams didn't answer. He turned slightly, looking at the Core, then at them again. "You're all going back."
Elamenor crossed her arms. "Back?"
"Home," Adams said simply. "You've done enough. It's boring here."
Erren tilted her head. "You're done playing?"
"Yes," Adams said.
Jack stepped forward. "What about Arianna?"
Adams's gaze lingered for a moment. "She's staying."
"Here?" Jack asked.
"Yes."
"She'll hate that," Elamenor said quietly.
Adams looked at her, eyes half-closed. "She'll like it here."
"Does she know?" Jameson asked.
"She doesn't need to," Adams said.
