Chapter 1678: Shadows That Endure

The air was still heavy, though the oppressive weight had lifted. The shattered remains of the crystal lay scattered across the chamber, pulsating faintly with residual energy. Liora stared at the fragments, her mind racing with questions about the figure she had glimpsed. The presence lingered in her memory—a haunting, ominous force that seemed to observe her even now.

Kael sheathed his sword, glancing back at Liora. "We should leave before the structure collapses entirely." His voice was calm, but his eyes betrayed his concern.

Elara nodded, her staff emitting a faint glow as she conjured a healing spell to ease their injuries. "This place feels... tainted. The crystal might be gone, but its essence lingers."

Bryn let out a low whistle as he surveyed the damage. "I don't know what you saw, Liora, but whatever it was, I don't think it's done with us. That crystal wasn't just a source of corruption—it was a beacon."