Healing

The swirling blue portal flickered like liquid sapphire, pulsing with raw energy as it materialized in the castle. Leor and Shania emerged from the depths of the swirling vortex, their boots touching the stone floor as the portal closed behind them with a faint whisper, leaving only the cold stillness of the chamber.

The scent of smoke still lingered in the air, mingling with the faint scent of fragrances that filled the castle. The great hall was filled with movement—children, once prisoners of Xal’dar, now sat or stood in small groups, their faces still etched with exhaustion, but their eyes burning with newfound gratitude.

The chamber was dimly lit, but the flickering torches along the walls cast a warm glow over the gathered children. Some were seated on thick cushions, their tired faces smeared with dirt and dried tears. Others leaned against the stone pillars, their postures tense but relieved.