The vibrant energy from our baking adventure still buzzed around me as we stepped through the threshold of the castle doorway, the scent of freshly baked honey cake trailing behind us like a delicious phantom.
My heart raced with anticipation as I felt the weight of the day settle on my shoulders, mixed with the sweet thrill I'd experienced with Ciara. Yet, little did I know that an exhilarating surprise awaited us just inside the castle walls.
"Welcome back!" Ciara declared, her voice echoing through the grand hall as she flicked her wrist dramatically.
In an instant, the world around us shimmered a bright, sparkling light that sent ripples through the air, swallowing both of us in a whirlwind of luminescence. I caught a glimpse of Leora's startled expression before everything faded to white.
