The morning dawned with a sullen, gray light, as if the very sky was mourning the losses they had suffered. Elara stood in the great hall, now transformed into a war room where commanders, mages, and strategists gathered around a massive map of the continent. The atmosphere was tense, with murmurs of uncertainty rippling through the crowd. They had all heard the reports of the twisted bodies found near the eastern ridge, and fear was beginning to take root in even the most seasoned warriors.
Elara surveyed the room, her gaze settling on each face. She could see the worry etched in their expressions, the doubts that lingered in their minds. But she couldn't afford to show weakness now—not when so many were looking to her for guidance.
