As Caden's eyes adjusted to the light, they moved from Elara's face to the surrounding room. The unfamiliarity of the setting momentarily confused him, but spotting Lysion and Valara standing a few feet away, recognition flashed across his features.
Lysion stepped forward, nodding in acknowledgment. "Caden, it's good to see you awake. We were quite concerned."
Attempting to respond, Caden's voice rasped out, weakened from his ordeal. Valara, ever the attentive Order Master, swiftly provided him with a glass of water. Gratefully, Caden sipped, letting the cool liquid soothe his throat before speaking. "What happened? Why am I here?"
