The group stood in the glow of the Great Tree, its light a beacon of hope in the rejuvenated forest. For a moment, the world felt at peace, as if time itself had slowed to allow them this brief respite. The air was thick with the scent of new growth, the forest around them humming with life. It was a sharp contrast to the desolation they had seen just hours before.
Elara leaned against the tree, her hand resting on its smooth bark. She could feel the pulse of the world through it, a steady rhythm that resonated with her own heartbeat. The weariness that had settled in her bones was still there, but it was tempered by a deep sense of satisfaction. They had done something incredible—something that would be remembered in the annals of history.
Kirin sheathed his sword and walked over to Elara, a soft smile on his lips. "You did well, Elara. We all did."