---
The journey back to the academy stretched long and arduous, the weight of exhaustion pressing heavily on Fowad and his companions.
The golden mist of Aurin's Peak and the village had long disappeared behind them, replaced by the dense forest's shadows and the quiet murmur of unseen wildlife.
The forest surrounding the them was eerily silent, a stark contrast to the chaos they had encountered before.
Fowad's Chaos Eye flickered faintly, revealing faint traces of lingering energy a reminder of the rival families' previous attack.
The once vibrant foliage appeared subdued, as if the trees themselves were weary from the battle.
"Almost there," Helena said, breaking the silence, her falcon gliding above with its sharp eyes scanning for any threats.
Fowad nodded, his gaze fixed on the distant outline of the academy walls.
