Chapter 1553: The Shadows Take Form

The aftermath of their victory over the node was a grim silence. The chamber, once pulsating with dark energy, now lay in ruin. The air was thick with the scent of scorched stone and the remnants of a power that had been extinguished—at least for now. Elara stood, her breathing ragged, her sword still glowing faintly from the energy of the relic. The world around her felt different, as though the weight of the abyss had been lifted, but only slightly. The danger had not passed entirely.

Kade, still recovering from the chaos, was the first to speak. His voice was tight, filled with both relief and concern. "We've done it. But... for how long?"

Elara didn't respond immediately. Her eyes scanned the now-desolate chamber, her thoughts heavy. She could feel the abyss's influence lingering, like a shadow just beyond her reach, waiting for the right moment to strike. She didn't trust the silence; she never had.