Morning came quietly to Eryndor.

For the first time in many days, there were no explosions.

No armies.

No screams.

Only sunlight.

Lucien stood on the palace balcony, looking over the city.

Smoke still rose from the ruins, but people were already rebuilding.

Soldiers carried injured civilians through the streets.

Merchants opened their shops.

Children played among the broken stones.

Life had returned.

Seraphina joined him.

"It's strange."

Lucien glanced at her.

"What is?"

"After everything we've been through..."

She looked toward the city.

"...the world still feels normal."

Lucien smiled.

"Maybe that's what we were fighting for."

Seraphina rested her head against his shoulder.

"Maybe."

---

Behind them, Lyra...