Vicente came face to face with Lyra within minutes of his arrival at the Valley of Shadows.
At long last, freed from the physical and spiritual bonds that had held her captive—rendering her powerless to rebel or flee. But unlike the raging fury and bloodlust that Larissa had exhibited, Lyra bore a calm and measured expression. Her experience and deep wisdom granted her a rationality that shone in this moment of liberation.
Glancing between Vicente and the leaders of the Valley, she understood the advantage she now held over the locals.
With a soft, genuine smile, she stepped forward and said, "Thank you for rescuing me. I never thought I'd see you again after that day."
Vicente nodded in agreement. He had also imagined that his companions might lose faith in his return. Yet such doubts wouldn't hurt him. He had been taken to Hell after being attacked by someone from Argardus. Such a thing would be the natural thing to expect!
