The sun was well above the horizon when Elara emerged from the fortress, the early light casting long shadows over the battered landscape. The aftermath of the battle was both harrowing and hopeful; the once-looming threat of the Abyss had been driven back, but the scars it left behind were undeniable.
Elara took a deep breath, the crisp morning air filling her lungs as she surveyed the damage. The fortress had withstood the assault, its walls marred but still standing. Around her, the defenders moved with a weary but determined energy, tending to the wounded, fortifying weak points, and assessing the damage.
Kael joined her, his face etched with exhaustion. "We held our ground," he said, his voice heavy. "But we need to address the damage and make sure our defenses are in top shape. The Abyss won't give up easily."
