The night was still, a peaceful contrast to the chaos that had gripped the world just days before. Elara sat near the fire, gazing into the flickering flames, her mind heavy with the weight of their recent victory. The destruction of the conduit had halted the spread of dark magic for now, but deep down, she knew this was only a temporary reprieve.
Morgana joined her, the soft crunch of her boots on the gravel announcing her presence. She held a flask of spiced wine, offering it silently to Elara, who took it with a grateful nod. They sat in silence for a moment, the crackling of the fire the only sound between them.
"Do you think it's truly over?" Morgana finally asked, her voice low, as if speaking too loudly might summon the shadows they had just fought to banish.