Chapter 57

The vortex swirled around them, its colors blending together in a kaleidoscope of light. The five friends felt themselves being pulled apart, their molecules rearranging to accommodate the journey.

Astrid's eyes were closed, her face set in determination. Raven's hand was still on the hilt of her sword, her body tense with anticipation. Lily's magic threads were wild, her eyes shining with excitement. Sophia's flames danced higher, her body glowing with an intense light. Poppy's voice was a gentle hum, her eyes closed in concentration.

As they journeyed deeper into the vortex, they began to see visions of the past and present. They saw the forest in all its glory, its ancient magic pulsing through the trees. They saw the darkness that had threatened to consume it, and the role they had played in defeating it.