The night passed in a blur, and by morning, Owen's burial was held. Tradition dictated that at least one person from each family in the hold attend, and they did.
Kiah, Anwyll, and Naya stood among the mourners, paying their final respects.
When the ceremony ended, Kiah watched Lauren and her children greet residents, a small, weary smile on Lauren's face. Kiah saw no need to approach. At least Lauren had some measure of closure now.
As the crowd thinned, they turned to leave. On their way back to Mr. Dai's house, they caught sight of Emiko in a tense exchange with her parents. The sharp gestures and hushed tones left little doubt it was an argument. They didn't step in though.
"Do you think she's asking about the cemetery?" Naya murmured.
"Probably, but I don't think her parents are willing to say much." Kiah responded.
"That means they are covering up something bad, right?"
"Not necessarily." Kiah replied, though her tone betrayed doubt. "But it's suspicious."
