The city healed in small ways first.
Under the influence of his growing domain, Clayton's Aspect powers grew stronger than ever before, and the passive effects of his Verdant domain assisted in the healing of the city.
It started with cracks closing, even as nets went up where stone had fallen.
Children learned the new paths without being told. The south field no longer smelled like fresh sap; it smelled like damp ash and clean tools.
The next morning, Clayton walked the morning circuit alone.
He traced the wall with his palm. Roots under the skin answered him, slow and steady. They were tired, but they were whole, and they were beginning to thrive. The damage from the Behemoth was now a map of stronger joints.
He paused at the rebuilt parapet and looked out.
From there, he saw the gray clouds hugging the horizon. He saw a line of scavenger birds circle the far ruins, but then they drifted on. They posed no threat; there was no movement that mattered yet.
