Chapter 296: New Challenger

Around her, the once vibrant battlefield had turned into a scene of desolation. The fallen cultivators, who had fought with such valor, now lay motionless, their life forces extinguished. The weight of their collective sacrifice pressed heavily on Althea's heart.

The seasoned warrior, who had fought alongside her, crawled toward her with visible effort. His face was etched with pain, and his voice strained. "Althea... we gave it our all. I... have no regrets."

The younger cultivator, still conscious but grievously wounded, mustered a weak smile. "We... fought for something greater. Even if... we don't see it, someone will carry on."

Althea's eyes brimmed with tears, both for the fallen cultivators and for the desperate situation they now faced. The city depended on her, and she couldn't afford to give in to despair. With a steely resolve, she pushed herself to her feet, though every movement was a painful reminder of her weakened state.