The cold winds of the high mountains howled as Elara and Morgana made their way back to the stronghold. The journey down from the Archive had been uneventful, but the tension between them was palpable. The memory of the cloaked figure's final words—*the Harbinger will rise again*—echoed in their minds, casting a shadow over their victory.
As they descended into the valley, the stronghold came into view, its towering stone walls offering a brief sense of security. But both women knew that even the strongest walls would not be enough to protect them from what was coming.
At the gates, Kirin and Henry were waiting. The moment they spotted Elara and Morgana approaching, they rushed forward, relief evident in their faces.
"You're back," Kirin said, his voice rough but warm. "We were starting to worry."