The rain had not stopped all morning. It tapped against black umbrellas and drummed against the coffin lid as the twins stood shoulder to shoulder, saying their last goodbye.
Veyra kept her gaze fixed on the ground, afraid that if she looked too long at the flowers being lowered with the casket, her tears would finally betray her. Kaelen adjusted his glasses with shaking hands, his face pale, lips pressed tight as though he might break apart if he spoke.
The priest's words faded into the sound of rain and distant murmurs. One by one, the neighbors, family and friends drifted away, leaving behind only the twins and the grave. The silence that followed felt heavier than the sky.
When the last mourner's footsteps disappeared down the path, without a notice a man in a dark coat approached. He carried a leather satchel, already damp with rain, and cleared his throat softly breaking the silence in the graveyard.
"Veyra Eldermere. Kaelen Eldermere," he began, voice low but firm. "My name is Mr. Alric, your mother's attorney. I'm… very sorry for your loss. But there is a matter we must discuss. ".