The days following her talk with River brought a much-needed calm to Seraphina's spirit.
Though her dream of the white tree still lived in the corners of her mind, it no longer overwhelmed her. River's quiet reassurance, his patience, and the revelation of the library had given her a sense of grounding she hadn't realized she needed. So, she returned to the world she had vowed to revive - Shadow City.
Winter was slowly retreating, its silver breath fading from rooftops and rivers. The snow that once blanketed the streets had begun to melt, revealing cobblestones and awakening the dormant colors beneath. The citizens were preparing for harvest, and Seraphina led the efforts with tireless energy.
Each day, she walked the streets, checking in with the farmers and planters who had bravely cultivated food during the bitter cold. Under her leadership and well planned structure, winter had not destroyed their stores. Under her supervision, greenhouses were flourishing.
