[Brinniel]

Calentoliel could not sleep at all. Her heart ached for what danger Mattius could possibly be in. She knew he was out alone, swordless, and yet no matter how much she tried, she could not tell her companions this. Calentoliel began to wonder if she would ever be able to use her voice again.

Calentoliel sat deep in thought about where Mattius could be. He had disappeared many times this night for reasons she did not know. Did Mattius wander off again, perhaps in search of his sword? Or perhaps he was taken away against his own will. Was it possible that Mattius was captured? Calentoliel shook her head. If Mattius was captured by something, why were the rest of them left unharmed?

And then Calentoliel made her decision. She had to know what happened to Mattius. If Mattius was in trouble, he would not hold out long with his smaller weapons. She glanced at her companions. They all appeared to be asleep. Though she may be mute, Calentoliel knew she was the only one who could help Mattius if he was in danger.

And so, without further hesitation, Calentoliel slipped away into the night. She was so focused on finding her missing friend, that she did not notice the dark shadow that passed her and surrounded the others, whom she left behind.