[: 3rd POV :]
Xerath's voice cut through the warm hum of conversation with a mix of sincerity and pride. "I heard what the Kaelgor had said earlier, and I must say, I feel exactly the same way''
''I can't fully express the depth of the debt I owe you, Caelira, for looking out for this little idiot and rebellious son of mine."
A soft chuckle escaped from Lilith behind him, her eyes twinkling with amusement at the affectionate yet exasperated tone.
Kiel's cheeks flushed bright red, and with a sharp retort, he shot back, "I'm not an idiot!"
Laughter erupted from all around them, the tension of recent worries momentarily melting away in shared mirth.
Caelira, a gentle smile gracing her lips, shook her head fondly.
"You may not be an idiot, but you do have a stubborn streak that's hard to tame."
Lilith stepped forward, joining Caelira and Selena in a comforting embrace.
