They made it back to the city in silence.
Arthur remained unconscious the entire trip, strapped to Gregor's back like a broken statue. His skin had cooled, but strange, hairline fractures of red still webbed across his arms and neck—remnants of the corrupted mana he'd tried to absorb.
The Guild's medical ward cleared space immediately. Not because he was special.
But because they'd seen this kind of rot before.
From those who didn't survive it.
Mira stood at the doors as Luka and Serene emerged, both streaked with ash and monster blood. Her expression was unreadable.
"Report."
Luka gave it plainly. No embellishment. No emotion.
Serene filled in the rest.
When they were done, Mira pinched the bridge of her nose. "We'll quarantine the site. Send a leyline specialist to confirm the nest's destruction. You two—rest."
Her eyes flicked to Luka. "And thank you for not killing him."
Luka shrugged. "Didn't have the energy."
