Noctisardor Bypass Blasé and lucky tonight,

Disbelief and shock made itself known on Anselm’s face. His cheeks burned with possibly one of the most unpleasant sensations he had ever experienced: an estranged species of grief.

That Mahler left couldn’t be true. But why would she lie? He was not a practiced sleuth, but even he couldn’t deny she spoke with conviction that conveyed belief. Maybe she was a good liar.

It was certainly a more palatable possibility than the truth.

For a while he was quiet. He wanted desperately to counter everything she said, but he knew it was true. His mouth worked in silent formations, as if he struggled with an answer. Finally, he took a deep breath and closed his eyes. When he opened them, his voice was a little more resolute.

Well, he is gone now. He and Vylla. You said Etienne left several days ago?