the monsters turned out to be just trees

hope keeps us breathing, just to kill us in the end

Feathering his jaw so as to keep from arguing, the alchemist wrapped his arms around Astra's neck, whispering soothing nonsensical words into her ears as his fingers softly roamed across her fur. Nodding both to Loren's instructions and also the bear, the alchemist followed in the wake of the guards and their prisoner, frowning deeply at the procession before him. He was torn between a desire to remain with Loren and see him out of this, to return to Aoife and his constantly-crumbling life, and to relay the Launceleyn's message to Jace and Beatrix (and presumably Peter then as well).

I am sorry for this. He...was not around when the barrier fell. Does not know what has transpired between us and the fae. Remi thought silently outwards, hoping not to justify Loren's actions, but only to explain them.