[VOLUME 13: THE PRIMEVAL ASCENSION][ERA: THE POST-DIVINE AGE][LOCATION: THE MORTAL REALM - THE WHISPERING WOODS]
When Elara opened her eyes, the world was no longer burning.
The agonizing, tearing sensation of the Origin magic had subsided into a low, thrumming purr beneath her skin. She lay still for a moment on the pallet of thick furs, breathing in the scent of damp earth, old pine, and the lingering, comforting mix of ozone and dark cedar that belonged exclusively to Li and Aldren.
The heavy cloak covering her shifted as she sat up. The cabin was empty, but a small, carefully tended fire crackled in the hearth, casting a warm glow against the morning chill.
