Chapter 42: A Lover's Kiss

The aftermath of the skirmish was glaringly evident within the confines of Master Lioran's quarters. Sunlight streamed in from shattered windows, catching the drifting smoke and turning it into a shimmering veil. The wooden floorboards, once polished to a reflective shine, now bore burnt imprints of elemental fury. Ancient tapestries hung askew, singed from the fiery exchanges, while shattered vials and toppled books bore testament to the frantic melee. The scent of burnt parchment mingled with a tang of ozone, a reminder of the raw magic that had been unleashed in this chamber of knowledge.