By the time the convoy rolled back into St. Mary’s, dusk had folded itself over the city. Valorian walked back through the sliding doors, soaked again but calm, heading straight for the glass of Bay Three. Elena felt something unclench in her chest. “Welcome home,” she murmured. He settled, tail flicking once.
The girl had woken briefly while he was gone, eyes fluttering open for seconds before sleep reclaimed her. When Elena told her softly, “Your dog’s back,” a faint smile ghosted her face. Now, seeing them together again—child resting, guardian watching—made the entire ward quieter somehow, as if reverence were contagious.