As if summoned by the remark, soft footsteps echoed from above—and Elara emerged.
Her steps were calm, measured, her bearing as poised as ever—but there was a warmth today, a clarity in her expression that hadn't been there since before the exams began. Her chestnut hair was loose down her shoulders, catching the morning light with polished softness, and her hazel eyes gleamed with gold beneath the glassy glaze of calm restoration.
Behind her, Reilan followed. Ash-brown hair combed neatly back, his usually sharp presence softened into something more composed. No longer the weary, simmering blade he'd been in recent days—today, he looked whole again. Present.
Aurelian blinked, then grinned. "Stars above, you do remember how stairs work. We were ready to send a scrying beacon."
Selphine's gaze swept over them with quiet appraisal. "You both look… alive. That's a good start."
