Liam joined the group as Sheila, Edith, Ariana, Dylan, and several other students made their way toward the staircase.
The ascent felt noticeably different from the descent earlier.
Crystal lanterns now illuminated the stairwell at regular intervals. Ancient inscriptions glowed faintly along sections of the walls, revealing patterns that had previously been difficult to distinguish beneath years of dust.
The repaired conduits carried Myst through the building in a controlled flow, their activity marked by subtle luminous traces beneath protective housings.
At one landing, Dylan stopped to admire a newly illuminated fixture.
"Look at that. Beautiful."
Ariana smiled.
"The lighting?"
"Our work."
"Of course."
He pointed toward the glowing lantern.
"That little thing has probably been waiting longer than any of us have been alive for someone competent enough to wake it up."
Liam passed him.
"Try not to propose marriage."
Dylan looked offended.
"I have standards."
