The wind carried the scent of ancient ash mixed with the fresh aroma of new wood. The road leading to Kaelthur was busier than Strax had expected—wagons laden with supplies, masons, merchants, and adventurers of various races coming and going as if the city had never been destroyed.
Samira walked beside him, watching the horizon begin to reveal the city's rebuilt towers. The sun was rising behind the restored walls, casting long golden shadows across the new rooftops.
Lilith followed close behind, shackled by mana chains that seemed to vibrate with Strax's energy. Despite her weary appearance, her eyes roamed curiously around her—it was the first time she had seen a human city literally rise from the ashes so quickly.
Strax, on the other hand, maintained a serious gaze and a slightly confused expression.
"That doesn't make sense," she murmured. "When we left, Kaelthur was in ruins."
