Chapter 223: Chapter 223: The Rising Tide

The journey back to the surface was a blur of exhaustion and grim determination. Every step felt heavier, the weight of their mission pressing down on them with relentless force. As Elara and Morgana emerged from the tunnel, the cool night air greeted them, a stark contrast to the oppressive atmosphere they had left behind in the fortress's depths.

Kael and Arian were waiting at the rendezvous point, their faces a mix of concern and relief as they saw the two women emerge from the darkness. The tension in their shoulders eased as Elara gave them a nod—silent confirmation that the Nexus Point had been destroyed.

"We did it," Elara said quietly, her voice barely carrying over the soft rustling of the wind through the barren landscape. "The Nexus Point is gone."

Kael stepped forward, clapping a hand on Elara's shoulder. "That's one less anchor for the Abyss to hold onto," he said, his voice filled with pride. "You did well."