Goblins Hollow 8

Chapter 13

The empress peeked into the library. "Daniel?" 

"Yes, who's at the door?" 

'It's Stergis and Ravenessa," She informed him.

"Send them in, please." 

Nodding she turned and escorted them into the room.

I'm glad you both made it tonight." He said to them.

'Of course. we're here for you.' Ravenessa told him. 

He nodded to her and hugged Stregis.

"Whatever you need, day or night brother, ask." 

"I'm at such a loss I don't know what I need." 

I don't blame you." Stergis responded. 

"There are plenty of drinks set up if you want anything befre the others get here," The empress told them. 

"We were just having coffee right before you arrived," She pointed out to him. 

"Sounds good to me," Stergis responded.,

Daniel went to the kitchen, began another pot and a few more ceramic mugs for them, then headed back to the library. He was grateful for one thing, he wasn't alone. if he were isolated , he feared what he might do. 

Quickly setting the pt down and filling the mugs for all of them, reminding himself to just breathe. 

'here we are." 

Are you okay?" Stergis asked.

'I don't know. I keep telling myself that I'll be okay.... I hope someday I might believe it." 

If you need time away from the bretheren, we'll understand." 

I appriciate that. I may take a few days." Daniel told him taking a sip.

"Whatever it takes." 

Daniel nodded, then a long awkward silence clouded the room like a deathly fog. 

"Drink up, I'm sure more will arrive soon," The empress pointed out. 

The rest of them nodded.

"I know it hurts," Ravenessa said, trying to console her friend.

"Yes it does," He whispered back, as there was a knock on the door. 

Ralvania jumped up, "I'll get it."