Stepping through the portal, Petne and Bella entered the vast, starlit expanse of the tower first floor, greeted by the warmth of family and allies.
It wasn't just the relief of surviving tower trials; there was something deeper here—a bond, an unspoken connection born from countless battles, victories, and losses. This was a gathering of people who had each faced their own trials, growing stronger together.
Petne's gaze drifted around the room, taking in familiar faces and scenes that radiated a comfort he rarely allowed himself to admit he needed.
His sister, Khaòs, was by their mother Lilith's side, her bright eyes gleaming as she chatted with Calantha and Shawn. He could feel the strength in the room—the quiet intensity of Eirwen and the sloth Death Dragon at her side, the lively, carefree laughter of Miya, Lucie, and Mideya, and the calm authority radiating from Rosier, Layla, and Sera.
