She could hear the piano music as soon as she crossed the stream. Her dad was sitting at the piano bench when she walked in, and didnt look up from the keys. But the music today wasnt as dark and frantic as it had been the night before; it was more calm and peaceful. Grimalkin lay atop the piano, feet tucked under him and eyes closed, purring in appreciation.


He let her, wondering where they were going.

she walked inside the house, stopping and looking over at him.

She goes to the trod thats closest to her moms house. She needs to talk to Settie for a minute.

The music faltered, and for a split second, it seemed like he was going to look up. But then his shoulders hunched and he went back to his playing, a little faster than before. Grimalkin didnt bother to open his eyes.



Ares takes her there.

she didn't say anything else and went back to her room.

She heads inside, telling Ares to sit and stay outside. She doesnt plan on staying for long.

Below, the piano music continued, a low, mournful song


Ares does so.

Her mom and Luke are there, sitting on the couch.

she set the sword down and laid on her bed, listening.

She pokes her head in, casually, as if she hasnt been gone for like a month. ,, Whats grandmas address?,,

It continued to play.


Mom looked up, half-asleep, rubbing her eyes. "What?"