As we made our way back to Thalia and Lucie's castle, the demon world's ominous landscape shifted, becoming almost peaceful under the twilight sky. The air had cooled, and after our day at the eerie yet somehow thrilling theme park, the quiet that settled between Lise and me was welcome.
The castle loomed ahead, its towering spires piercing the sky like jagged teeth. Yet, despite its intimidating appearance, I felt at ease here. There was something warm and inviting in this place, perhaps because it had been a sanctuary after everything we'd been through.
When we walked inside, the others were already gathered in the grand hall, chatting and laughing, their earlier battles and trials temporarily forgotten. Lucie and Thalia sat close together, exchanging quiet words, while Zaya lounged on a plush armchair, grinning as she recounted some story to Zephara and Leora, who both listened with amused smiles.