Chapter 380: Chapter 380: The Calm Before the Tempest

The morning sun bathed the village in a golden light, a welcome change from the oppressive gloom that had marked their journey through the ruins. Elara, Elias, Morgana, Thalia, and their newfound ally, Varian, gathered in the village hall, their plans for the future taking shape.

Elara stood at the head of the table, the crystalline orb positioned prominently in the center. The orb's gentle glow illuminated the room, casting an aura of hope and anticipation over the group.

"Our next step is crucial," Elara began, addressing her companions. "We've learned much about the orb and its potential, but we still need to solidify our strategy moving forward."

Varian, who had been silently observing, finally spoke. "The darkness that threatens your world is not a single entity but a collective force of malevolence. It seeks to corrupt and consume everything in its path. Our goal must be to strike at the heart of this darkness and disrupt its source."