Chapter 417: Chapter 417: The Frozen Echoes

The stillness of the cavern was almost unsettling after the chaos of battle. The Pillar, now awakened and glowing with a steady, otherworldly light, seemed to pulse with renewed energy. Morgana, kneeling beside it, took a moment to steady her breath, her face pale from the effort.

Elara surveyed the cavern, her gaze lingering on the now-quiet expanse. The creatures that had attacked were gone, their forms dissipated into the darkness from which they came. The air still crackled with residual magic, a reminder of the immense power that lay beneath the surface of Vaelorn.

Cedric approached Morgana, his sword still at the ready but his posture relaxed. "You did well. The Pillar is active."

Morgana nodded, though her eyes were distant. "The first step is complete. But this is only one Pillar. There are still four more, and each will present its own challenges."