{"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die."}
I took a slow breath, steadying myself. This wasn't just an announcement. It was a wound, one I was about to open for all of us. I cleared my throat and met their gazes, my voice calm but firm. "I wish I had returned with lighter news." My words hung in the air for a moment before I continued. "But we lost someone important."
A ripple of unease passed through the group. Some shifted in their seats. Others held their breath.
"Althea Gale has passed," I said, the words tasting bitter on my tongue. "She rests now in Hanka Island, as was her wish. And though she is gone, she will not be forgotten."
Wave lowered his head, his usual smirk absent. Spark let out a slow exhale, his fingers tightening around his forearm. Even Rou, who always had something to say, remained silent.
