Chapter 23: Saved her
The cool night air greeted Leon and the party as they emerged from the demon's lair, the moon casting a pale glow over the rocky hillside.
Terya walked upright, her blonde hair catching the light, her face clear of the curse's dark tendrils, though her steps were still shaky from the ordeal.
Saria led with her usual stoic grace, her black ponytail swaying, her sword sheathed but her fiery aura faintly flickering.
Tila bounced with energy, her shortbow slung over her shoulder, while Boren trudged behind, his spear tapping the ground, his gruff demeanor softened by the victory.
Leon's body ached, the ritual's intensity and the fight with Kalthor leaving him drained, but the new bond with Terya—a cool, airy pulse in his chest—kept his spirits high.
I did it, he thought, his sneakers scuffing the dirt. Saved her. Fought a demon. Didn't faint.
The villagers waited at the forest's edge, their faces tense with anticipation.
When they saw Terya, alive and uncursed, a stunned silence fell, broken by a single, slow clap.
It grew into a rhythm, then a roar, the crowd's cheers echoing through the trees.
A child pointed at Leon, eyes wide.
"He healed her!" she shouted, her voice carrying over the din.