Luneshale Pass mercy street redux

her needling question found its mark. the hale bloom of his face withdrew, darkening his black countenance. 

family sustained him. qiao’s apprising eyes lifted to study the pale wisps of clouds in the sky above. where he saw a puzzle to unlock, she saw a soul that could be given to the overworld — if he would just stop that persistent clinging to life. 

having family meant his absence would surely be noted.  where? i have only ever seen you alone.