Noel crouched down beside Laziel and hooked an arm under his shoulders, lifting him without much effort. The mage was completely limp, his staff slipping from his fingers and clattering softly against the stone. Noel caught it before it could roll too far and leaned it against the steps.
"Still breathing," he muttered, more out of habit than concern.
Noir shifted beside him, her body expanding as shadows rippled across her fur. She didn't grow to her full size, just enough to be sturdy and wide-backed, a living platform rather than a looming presence. Noel gently placed Laziel across her back, adjusting his position until he was balanced and secure.
They moved back toward the steps where Noel had been sitting earlier. Noir lowered herself carefully and curled up, her large body forming a natural cradle. Laziel rested on top of her, unconscious but clearly safe, rising and falling with slow, steady breaths.
Noel straightened and crossed his arms, studying the scene.
