The sun rose over the valley, casting its warm, golden light across the land that had just been saved from the brink of destruction. The battle was won, but the scars of war were evident on both the land and the people who had fought to protect it.
Elara sat on a rock, her gaze fixed on the horizon. The aftermath of the battle lay before her—a landscape of shattered trees, scorched earth, and the remnants of the dark essence. She was exhausted, her energy depleted from the intense struggle, but there was a sense of peace that came with the dawn.
Kael approached, his face weary but triumphant. He offered her a flask of water, which she accepted gratefully. "How are you holding up?" he asked gently.
Elara took a sip, the cool liquid refreshing. "I'm alright. Just… tired. It feels surreal, you know? We've been fighting for so long, and now it's over."