章 1283: Chapter 1283: Flickers of Hope

The journey back from the valley was quiet. Kael, Morgana, and Darien walked in contemplative silence, each absorbed in the weight of what they had accomplished. The defeat of the shadow's heart had lifted a burden none of them had realized they'd been carrying, yet a lingering sense of unease settled over them. Though the darkness had been vanquished, its presence still echoed in their minds, like a melody that refused to fade.

As they approached the outskirts of their camp, the evening light softened around them, filtering through the trees in gentle beams. The sight of the familiar clearing and the scent of smoke drifting from the campfire felt like a balm to their weary spirits. Word of their victory had traveled ahead of them, and their comrades greeted them with cheers and relieved smiles.