Vesta breathes a sigh of relief, her face brightening with a warm smile.

“That’s a relief. I’m so glad he’s awake.” A soft laugh escapes her. “Perhaps we can all have tea together soon. I’ve been meaning to visit Roman and Calliope as well.”

She shakes her head.

“I don’t know if Raissa is awake.” She gives a small shrug. “To be honest with you, I don’t particularly care. I haven’t heard from Gran.”

She intertwines her fingers with Zukar’s, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. Her expression falls a bit, and though she still smiles, it doesn’t quite reach her eyes.

“We’re doing better than we were, now that the famine is over. But…” She pauses, letting out a slow breath. “I’m tired, Jade. Ending the famine took more out of me than I can say.”

Her eyes drift to Zukar before returning to Jade.

“I think I need to step away for a little while. We’ve been talking about spending a few months at Virelya’s grove, if she allows it.”

She thinks for a moment.

“I don’t know if I could even get the vardo there, but regardless, I need to get away. Somewhere I can recover from these past two years.”

She exhales slowly, absently brushing her thumb across the back of Zukar’s hand.

“I want to finish my book. Spend time with Zukar. I’d like to get to know Virelya better, and rebuild her shrine. Learn the old songs and stories…” She trails off for a moment before adding softly, “I want a little while where my mind isn’t trying to tear itself apart.”

Her shoulders sag slightly.

“I know the war is still going on, and I feel guilty leaving you to it.” She sighs. “But if I’m honest, I don’t think I’d be much use to anyone like this. I gave most of my life force to Virelya.”

She offers Jade an apologetic smile.

“I hope you won’t think less of me if I disappear for a few months. I’d still love for you to visit.” She smiles a little more warmly. “And I hope you’ll still write to me.”

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