"Aiden! Miya!" Selene called, her voice breaking with relief.
She hurried over to her son and nephew, enveloping them in a tight hug. Miya returned the hug, her eyes closed, taking comfort in the familiar warmth of her adoptive aunt.
Aiden, though a bit embarrassed, grumbled, "Mom, I'm not a kid... You're embarrassing me." Despite his words, he hugged her back tightly, his own relief evident in the gesture.
Magnus approached them, his presence commanding attention. "Young lady, I'm glad you have your family back. But we need to move quickly. Follow us to the courtyard soon."
Selene nodded, her eyes still shining with tears of gratitude. "Of course, Lord Magnus."
Magnus led the group through the grand hallways of the castle, the children following closely. They entered a large courtyard, where the other rescued children were already gathered. The rescuers who had parted ways earlier stood around, talking quietly among themselves.
