The northern gates of Eryndor opened before sunrise.

Lucien stood outside the palace with his sword at his side, watching the first rays of light appear beyond the mountains.

Seraphina approached, tightening the straps of her armor.

"Ready?"

Lucien nodded.

"As ready as I'll ever be."

Lyra joined them with the Crystal Heart secured beneath her cloak.

Nethros followed, carrying a dark cloak over his shoulders.

Aster landed beside them.

"We should leave before the border patrol changes."

Lucien looked back at Eryndor.

For a moment, he hesitated.

The city had survived the war.

People were rebuilding.

Children were laughing again.

He didn't want to leave it.

But something told...