End

Consciousness arrives gently, letting Win's awareness spread in tiny increments.

The first thing he realizes is that he is not stuck inside an ancient magical entrapment anymore. The suffocating presence of the twin is gone. He can breathe easily, and the air is cool and fresh, with hints of herbs and mint.

His mind is functional enough to remember that only the smells like this; of old scent and sanctuary... the safe and welcoming parts of it, at least.

It's also wonderful to feel that he's lying on a bed instead of kneeling on the hard stone floor. His weary body is much appreciative of its softness and warmth. He is content to lay there for the moment, accepting that even though he still feels drained and exhausted, he is alive. Against all insurmountable odds, he is somehow alive.

Alex.

Even as the thought slams into him, something flares in his chest, bright and vibrant and vital. It catches all of his attention instantly, this new feeling that seems to have lodged deep inside hi