The four hours passed more swiftly than any of them expected. By the time the Veiled Lantern's shadowy lights dimmed to signal closing hour, the group had returned to the carriages, each a little more rested or full.
Albedo and Lilian returned together, the faintest smile still ghosting over her lips, though she tried to mask it under her usual cool composure.
Albedo said nothing, merely adjusted the new pendant resting against his chest. The crystal of the Echo Tear pulsed faintly with internal light, its resonance syncing with the rhythm of his mana.
Ysvara stood beside the lead carriage, speaking quietly with one of the spectral drivers, her hair fluttering slightly despite the still air. When she saw them approach, she nodded briskly. "You're both just in time. Everyone's aboard. We leave now."
The duo nodded and quickly boarded, finding their seats, and as everyone settled in, the carriages moved off, rolling towards Asthotar City.
