Arthur gradually regained consciousness in the familiar sterile environment of the tether chambers. The white walls surrounding him served as a stark reminder that he was truly back on Earth, back in the world he had feared he might never see again.
After taking a few moments to fully orient himself and ensure his body was functioning properly, Arthur quickly made his way through the school's corridors toward the administration offices. The hallways felt both familiar and strange at the same time, as if he was seeing them through new eyes after everything he had experienced.
When he arrived at the designated administrative area, he was relieved to see Aziel already waiting there, looking just as disoriented and overwhelmed as Arthur felt. The two young men exchanged glances that conveyed their mutual relief at having both made it back safely, though neither seemed quite ready to process everything that had happened to them.