As the first light of dawn bathed the forest in a golden glow, the Guardians emerged from the ritual clearing, their spirits buoyed by the success of their task. The forest seemed to whisper its approval, the trees swaying gently in the morning breeze. With their mission to perform the ritual accomplished, they turned their attention to the next phase of their quest.
Elara led the way, the tome now securely packed away, its secrets and guidance fresh in their minds. The forest paths, previously shadowed and mysterious, now seemed more navigable, though the Guardians remained vigilant.
"We need to head to the Shattered Realm," Elara said, glancing at the map they had studied earlier. "The tome indicated that this is where the final confrontation with the source of darkness will occur."
