Night blanketed the village of Veridia when Elara, Kael, Lyra, and the others returned. The faint glow of lanterns illuminated the narrow pathways, and the quiet hum of life seemed almost normal—except for the watchful eyes peering through windows and the ever-present tension hanging in the air. The destruction of the tree had bought them time, but it had not brought peace.
Elder Maelis met them at the square, her aged face etched with concern. "You've returned," she said, her voice both relieved and questioning.
"We destroyed the tree," Kael reported. "It was a source of their power. The creatures are gone, at least for now."
Maelis nodded but did not look reassured. Her gaze shifted to Elara, who remained silent, the weight of the Codex tucked under her arm. "And the darkness? Did you sense its retreat?"
