章 123: A Moment of Respite

The morning after the battle at Eldoria dawned with a soft, golden light that seemed almost incongruous with the somber mood hanging over the castle. As the first rays of sunlight filtered through the high windows, Emily stood on the battlements, looking out over the fields where the remnants of the battle still lay. The sight of fallen soldiers and the distant figures of survivors moving among them filled her with a mixture of relief and sorrow. They had won, but at a great cost.

Down in the courtyard, a flurry of activity signaled the return of Valen and the surviving troops. Emily descended the stone steps quickly, her heart pounding with anticipation and concern. The soldiers entered the castle gates to the sound of cheering, their armor clinking and faces weary but triumphant. Families rushed forward, embracing loved ones who had returned and mourning those who had not.