章 169: we’re with you

The shockwave from the destruction of the orb lingered in the air, its force having left the group sprawled across the stone floor of the ancient temple ruins. Dust settled slowly, and a tense, eerie silence replaced the chaos that had erupted just moments ago. Emily's ears rang, her body aching from the impact, but her mind was sharper than ever. She could feel something wasn't right.

Valen groaned as he pulled himself up, his hand clutching his side where a jagged rock had caught him in the blast. Darius was already on his feet, his sword drawn, scanning the area for any immediate threats. "Is everyone alright?" he called out, his voice rough with exhaustion.