Silas and Evelyn stepped through the shimmering portal, emerging into the familiar surroundings of the Eldritch Academy observatory. The air crackled with residual energy as the portal closed behind them. Odessa stood by the control panel, her eyes wide with a mix of relief and excitement.
"Professor Winterbourne!" Odessa cried, rushing forward to embrace Evelyn. "I was so afraid I'd never see you again."
Evelyn returned the hug warmly, a fond smile on her face. "It's good to see you too, Odessa. I'm glad to be back."
Silas watched the reunion with a sense of satisfaction, pleased to see his mother reunited with her protégé. He knew how much Evelyn had invested in Odessa's education, teaching her the intricacies of magitech that few others could comprehend.
"Odessa," Silas said, turning to the young woman. "Have you been in touch with Jace and the others?"
