Chapter 821: Chapter 821: The Past That Separates Us

The morning sun filtered through the forest canopy, casting dappled shadows on the ground as the Guardians began their journey back to their base. The mood was lighter, the weight of their recent battle giving way to a sense of relief and anticipation for the future.

Elara led the way, her steps confident but weary. The others followed closely, their thoughts scattered between the triumphs of the past and the uncertainties of the future. As they walked, the forest seemed to be returning to its former, tranquil state, a testament to the balance they had restored.

The journey back was uneventful until they reached a part of the forest that was unfamiliar to them. The path they had known was gone, replaced by a thick, misty fog that clung to the ground like a shroud. The trees here were twisted and gnarled, their branches reaching out like skeletal fingers.