Chapter 481: Chapter 481: The Past's Persistent Whisper

The village, having weathered the tumultuous night, was now bathed in the soft light of early dawn. The survivors had begun to assess the damage and tend to the needs of those affected by the battle. Elara, though weary, moved through the village with a sense of purpose. The events of the past days had forged an unbreakable bond between her and the villagers, and she was determined to see them through the storm that lay ahead.

In the early hours, Morgana and Aric had set up a makeshift laboratory in one of the village's larger buildings. Their focus was on analyzing the energies from the recent ritual and understanding the full impact of the Shadow Shard's influence. The work was delicate and required precision, as the balance of magical forces was critical to their continued success.