The groups returned to the mansion under the cover of twilight, the fading light casting long shadows across the once-imposing structure. Ryuto and Roland arrived first, their weariness palpable. The battle at the cliffs had left its mark on both of them, but it was the unanswered questions lingering in Ryuto's mind that weighed heaviest.
Nina and Ruda entered shortly after, their banter a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere that had settled over the group. Nina twirled her fire-wreathed dagger with exaggerated flair. "Another rune down, no big deal. We're getting pretty good at this, huh, Ruda?"
Ruda rolled her eyes but smirked. "If by 'good,' you mean setting half the mine on fire, then sure."
"Details, details," Nina said dismissively, plopping onto the couch and stretching her arms dramatically.
Ryuto gave them a tired nod. "At least you made it back in one piece."
"And in style," Nina added, winking.
