The group left the Keeper's chamber in silence, the echo of its final words clinging to the still air. Each step they took seemed heavier than the last, the enormity of their decision bearing down on them.
Elara led the way, her mind reeling from everything they had learned. The Rift—the very thing they had fought to understand—was not just an accident. It was the catalyst that had thrown the world into chaos, and now, the only way to stop it was through a sacrifice none of them were ready to make.
As they emerged into the fading light of Silverspire's ancient streets, the city's cold wind swept through them, as if echoing their inner turmoil. Elara finally stopped, turning to face the others. Their faces were a mix of determination, fear, and uncertainty.
Kirin broke the silence first, his voice low but firm. "We can't just accept what the Keeper said. There has to be another way."