It took time.
Longer than Vell had expected.
The mages worked simultaneously at first but eventually began taking shifts as they grew too weak. Their hands trembled from repeated spellwork and the drain of mana.
The air was thick with the scent of chalk, and the mages' hands were coated in it as well.
Portals shimmered in and out of existence, each one opening briefly on distant shores, sunlit courtyards, and snow-covered cities. Many led to palaces. Others, to more humble abodes.
Slowly, the guests were guided through.
Vell tried to work alongside them, but a powerful headache prevented him from focusing too strongly, and he didn't want to create any kind of accident.
So instead, he gave what energy he had to the other mages.
Even wrapped in linen and bandages from wounds, mana wasn't entirely related to the body.
And thanks to his strong vitality and presence of mind, he regained energy faster than he expended it.
By the end, his home was mostly empty again. No more crowds.
Only the mages remained, drained but relieved to have done their duty.
"Thank you," he said. "You've done more than enough. Let me return the favor."
They nodded, too tired to protest. One by one, Vell sent them away, each to a place of their choosing. A college. A sanctuary. A home they would be more than glad to see.
With every spell, he steadied himself against a nearby shelf or table, forcing his mind to stay clear.
Until at last, they were gone.
Only Vell, Sonder, Hiraeth, and the Kalandir remained in the vast library.
Vell lowered himself slowly into one of the armchairs, unconcerned by the chalk dust he'd leave behind on the cushion.
He rested his head back, eyes closing for a moment.
"You look worried," Hiraeth said to him.
"Is it that obvious?" "Well," said Vell, opening his eyes again.
He did not deny it.
"I didn't see Limerence," he said. "Not once in the crowd. Not in the library. I kept hoping that I had just missed her."
He leaned forward slightly. "I just hope she's alright."
The Lord Chancellor stepped forward, hands folded behind his back, his composure as pristine as it had been hours before.
"I think it may gladden you to hear that Lady Limerence was not present at the funeral," he said.
"You sure?"
"I am," the Chancellor replied. "I know every name, every face that stood beneath the shadow of the valley in that moment. She was not among them. She left the day prior to the ceremony, without announcement, though not in secrecy. Her departure was noted."
There was a pause.
The tightness in Vell's shoulders lessened, his brow relaxed, and he let out a slow breath.
"I was worried, I must admit. But she always had a knack for vanishing when things got serious. I'll try to reach her later," he said. "If she wants to be found, she'll answer. If not... well, I've played that game with her before."