The morning dawned with an uneasy stillness. The sanctuary's wards shimmered faintly, their protective energy pulsing in time with the shard's light. Elara woke first, her senses heightened as if anticipating danger. The air carried a subtle charge, as though the land itself was holding its breath.
Morgana was already at work, seated cross-legged near the shard. Her hands hovered over the glowing relic, her eyes closed in concentration. The faint hum of energy radiating from the shard fluctuated under her touch, resonating with the ley lines beneath the sanctuary.
"How's it coming?" Elara asked, her voice low.
Morgana opened her eyes, her expression one of measured focus. "It's responding, but it's slow. The lines beneath us are tangled, likely due to the corruption. Untangling them will take time—and precision."
Elara nodded. "Take what you need. We'll hold the line until you're ready."