As they passed beneath the ancient canopy, the sunlight began to pierce through the leaves, scattering golden patches on the mossy ground.
The forest had changed; it was alive again. The fairies fluttered between branches, tiny wings scattering trails of iridescent dust. Spirit deer peeked from behind glowing mushrooms, their eyes curious instead of fearful.
Even the air felt different; it was lighter, warmer, like the forest itself was sighing in relief.
Soon, the elves began to emerge from their shelters.
They blinked at the light, marveling as the once-darkened sky turned clear and blue. Some fell to their knees, whispering prayers to the World Tree; others wept openly as spirit birds circled above, singing a melody that hadn't been heard for centuries.
"Look…" one of them whispered as they spotted Ling Yu and Ji Xiulan walking side by side. "The saviors…"
Ling Yu stiffened. She wasn't used to being called that.
