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Aashi hurried back to the Elven Stronghold, her heart pounding with worry for her Master.
Even though the Stronghold was still standing, the air was heavy with the residual energy of Erick’s attack, and the sky above bore traces of the aftermath, with the strain of cracks spreading across the portal.
She could see the Elven warriors, battered but still standing guard at the stronghold's perimeter, their bodies tense and senses heightened.
Inside the stronghold, the Grand Elder was channeling her energy into reinforcing the protective barrier. The translucent dome shimmered like a fragile shell, barely holding against the chaotic forces outside.
"Ms. Aashi, what is happening out there?" the Grand Elder asked, her trembling voice revealing the strain she was under from the overuse of her energy.