Chapter 197: Chapter 197: The Lake of Shadows

Elara and Morgana made their way back along the shore, the distant glow of the fragment in Elara's hand a comforting beacon in the surrounding darkness. Every step felt heavier, the weight of what they had just faced still fresh in their minds. Yet, there was no time to dwell on it; they had to regroup with Kirin and Lyra.

The fog that had once obscured their vision was thinning, revealing more of the lake's still waters. The oppressive chill that had clung to the air was gradually dissipating, though the sense of unease still lingered. Elara tightened her grip on the fragment, feeling its warmth seep into her skin.

"Do you think they're all right?" Morgana asked, her voice tinged with concern.

"They're strong. If anything happened, they'd find a way to deal with it," Elara replied, though she couldn't fully shake her own worry. "But we'll find out soon enough."