Back at the dwelling, they cleaned. Nyx produced supplies from a pack Faelyn hadn't noticed.
"You planned for this," Roshan observed.
"Planned for possibilities. Different thing."
They worked with frightening efficiency. Years of hunting together showing in unconscious coordination. Roshan scrubbed floors. Nyx handled walls. Faelyn insisted on helping despite being told to rest.
Roshan's mind: ฅᨐฅ'We used to do this after big hunts. He'd handle the messy parts without complaining. Forgot how seamlessly we worked together.'ฅᨐฅ
Nyx's mind: ฅᨐฅ'He's using the technique I taught him. Circular motions, cold water first. He remembered. After everything, he still remembered.'ฅᨐฅ
Their hands touched reaching for the same cloth.
Both froze.
Eye contact.
Something unspoken passed between them.
Nyx pulled back, tossed Roshan the cloth.
Faelyn listened to their thoughts and realized: 'They miss each other. Too stubborn to admit it, but they MISS being friends.'
