The Legacy: A Custodes Noctis Book (40 page)

“Yeah, Keepers, together.”

“About damn time.” Rob slapped him on the back. “Is it nice to be alive?”

“Yeah, I’m glad my death’s over, Rob. Thanks. It’s nice to be back and be what I, we, are supposed to be.”

“Yeah, and let me repeat. About damn time.” Rob chuckled, the soft sound became a laugh. Galen joined him.

As one they turned to leave. When they reached the last turn in the path, Rob glanced back at the clearing, the smoke rising gently above the trees. The forest felt warmer, smelled cleaner. Rob stopped, and stood looking back down the path, back towards the clearing. Galen walked back and stood beside him. His brother leaned against him. They stood together, watching the fire that was still burning, then turned and walked down the path to where their friends were waiting, out of the dark forest towards home.