As the brilliance of the Aetherstone reached its zenith, the entire glade was bathed in a blinding light that pulsed with raw, unbridled energy. Elara stood at the center of the ritual circle, her body trembling under the immense pressure, but her resolve unwavering. The Aetherstone in her hand felt almost unbearably hot, the warmth now a searing heat that coursed through her veins, threatening to consume her entirely.
Morgana's chanting grew louder, her voice steady despite the intensity of the power swirling around them. The ground beneath their feet vibrated as the ritual drew more energy from the Source, channeling it through Elara and into the Aetherstone. Every fiber of Elara's being was focused on maintaining control, on guiding the energy into the protective shield they so desperately needed.
