The first light of dawn filtered through the thick canopy of the ancient forest as Elara, Morgana, Elias, and Thalia gathered around a map spread out on a wooden table in their temporary base. The map was dotted with markers indicating the locations of the dark magic strongholds they had neutralized, and a few new potential sites identified from recent intelligence.
Elara traced a finger along a particularly ominous-looking area. "This region here, near the old river basin, has shown increased magical activity. We need to investigate it further. It's possible that it's another nexus of dark magic."
Morgana nodded, her eyes focused on the map. "We should prepare for anything. If these sites are connected, we might find clues that lead us to the source of the disturbances."
Elias, ever the pragmatist, checked his gear. "I'll make sure we have everything we need for a long expedition. The terrain in that area could be challenging."
