Chapter 663: Chapter 663: The Ritual's Edge

The forest was a silent sentinel in the deep of night, its ancient trees standing tall and unmoving as if holding their breath. The strike team, consisting of Elara, Morgana, Thorne, and a few elite soldiers, moved with stealth and purpose through the dense underbrush. The moon hung low in the sky, partially obscured by drifting clouds, casting a pale, ghostly light that barely penetrated the thick canopy overhead.

Elara's senses were on high alert, her eyes scanning the darkness for any sign of movement or danger. The rhythmic thud of her heart was the only sound that seemed to pierce the stillness, a reminder of the gravity of their mission. Morgana, her staff glowing faintly with protective magic, led the way, her eyes fixed on a map she had conjured with a spell to ensure they were on the right path.

"We're close," Morgana whispered, her voice barely audible. "The magical interference is getting stronger. We're almost at the heart of their ritual."