Chapter 489: Chapter 489: The Shadow's Pursuit

The descent from the mountains was faster than their climb, though it was not without peril. The narrow, rocky paths they had carefully navigated on the way up were now treacherous slopes, slick with morning dew and loose gravel. The team moved with a renewed sense of urgency, driven by the knowledge that the Shadow Shard would soon discover what they had done.

Elara led the way, her eyes scanning the path ahead for any signs of danger. Behind her, Cedric and Elias kept their weapons at the ready, their expressions tense. Morgana followed closely, the cracked talisman clutched in her hand, its once-brilliant surface now dull and lifeless. Aric brought up the rear, his gaze constantly shifting between the path ahead and the dark clouds gathering on the horizon.