A week had passed since the celebration, and the group had remained at the outpost, helping where they could, strengthening the walls, and offering guidance to the survivors. But now, under the lingering darkness of an early morning sky, Julian and his five companions quietly made their departure.
They walked along the elevated ridge above the base, their footsteps light, the silence between them filled only by the rustle of wind.
Emma stretched her arms and yawned. "Why do we always have to leave at night? I mean… isn't daylight a better idea?"
Aya responded softly while adjusting her glasses, "Because if Claus sees Julian leaving, he'll cry and throw a fit. He's gotten too attached."
Clarissa nodded. "Right. He's been glued to Julian's side like a little brother. It'd be a mess trying to say goodbye in the morning."
Julian gave a small smile, but his expression turned serious. "We're leaving now because I have a bad feeling. And It's time we moved forward."
