Lira's sanctuary wrapped around them the moment they stepped through the garden gate. The air felt softer here, carrying the sweet scent of damp earth and blooming flowers.
Pale violet petals had opened wide to catch the morning sun, while golden ones glowed like small coins against the green. Climbing vines had twisted overnight across the cabin walls, their leaves still shiny with dew. Underfoot, the moss gave slightly beneath their boots before slowly springing back.
Aria sat on the low stone bench near the far wall. She had been there since dawn, fingers working through the soil, planting seedlings with the steady care of someone who knew how to coax life from the ground. She looked up as they entered. Her eyes carried less weight today. The chill at the edges of her presence lingered, but her shoulders had eased.
Kai'sa arrived last. She did not come alone.
