Chapter 45: Lysaria leaves
The Flame Matron did not linger.
Soon, she directed her Archons and Vestal Guardians to secure the bound prisoners – Elian, the Deacon, and the complicit guards. The Dark Temple delegation watched the proceedings with impassive, calculating expressions before melting back into their shadowy portals as silently as they had arrived.
Lysaria watched them prepare the transport, her heart heavy. She approached the Flame Matron hesitantly. "Matron... must I go immediately? These children... and my companions..."
The Matron turned, her ancient eyes sharp. "The Herald's command was clear, Lysaria. Your duty lies in Luxia now. The Church will arrange for the children's temporary care here until matters are settled." Her tone left no room for argument. "Do not mistake divine providence for personal choice. Go."
Lysaria looked towards Lila and Sherry, who were comforting the children. A pang of regret hit her – leaving them, leaving Elowen, felt like abandoning something important. But the Matron's authority, reinforced by the Herald's decree, was absolute. With a final, lingering look at her friends, Lysaria bowed her head and joined the procession forming around the prisoners. Golden portals shimmered open, and one by one, the Church delegation, along with their captives and a reluctant Lysaria, vanished from the square.
Silence descended once more, broken only by the soft sniffles of the children.
"Come on," Lila said gently, taking Elara's hand. "Let's get you all back to the Sanctuary. It's safe there now."
Sherry nodded, helping Finn to his feet. Together, they guided the children through the now-quiet streets, away from the scene of their terror and miraculous rescue. The townsfolk watched them pass, their expressions a mixture of relief, lingering fear, and confusion.
Back within the familiar, worn walls of the Sanctuary of the Dawn orphanage, the children slowly began to relax. The lingering warmth of Thymia's blessing seemed to have eased not just their physical ailments but the sharpest edges of their trauma. They huddled together, sharing the remaining pieces of bread Lila had brought, their voices gradually returning.