Benjamin eases Julian through the porch door and into the cool morning light. The house behind them stays still, warm with sleep and grief.
Julian leans hard on the railing, trembling, and lifts his clouded eyes toward the horizon. The first sunline spills gold over the lawn.
Julian
So that is how morning looks when it finally reaches you.
Jenny and Louis remain at the threshold, quiet guards in the doorway, letting the moment breathe. The yard is overgrown, but calm.
Louis
Take your time. No one is rushing this.
Jenny
We can stay out here as long as he wants.
Julian’s shoulders slacken a little. Benjamin keeps him steady while the sunlight climbs, softening the hard edges of everything left behind.
Julian
Thank you... for letting me see it.
✓ Quest Accepted
Say goodbye to Julian
“"We didn't know you long, Julian. But you seem like a good man. We'll find you in the next life. That's a promise."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Leadership, rolled -3)
Benjamin lets the silence sit a moment longer, then turns slightly so Julian can hear him without lifting his voice.
Benjamin
We did not know you long, Julian. But you seem like a good man.
Julian’s hand tightens against the porch rail, and his shoulders ease at the words.
Benjamin
We will find you in the next life. That is a promise.
Julian
A small, peaceful breath leaves them, like they have been waiting to hear something steady.
Julian
Then I can leave here lighter.
Louis lowers his gaze, jaw tight with emotion, while Jenny watches the two of them in still, respectful silence.
Julian
Stay alive long enough to make that promise mean something.
Quest Complete
Say goodbye to Julian