The portal shimmered once, then sealed behind them with a low hum that echoed through the palace corridor.

Althea staggered the moment her feet touched solid ground.

Zander was quick to steady her, his hand closing around her arm as a faint glow passed between them. She felt it instantly. A warm current threading through her veins, steadying her breathing, easing the ache that still clung to her bones after healing Riela.

“I’m transferring just enough energy,” Zander murmured quietly. ...