The calm that followed the closing of the rift felt almost unreal. The land around them, once twisted by raw magical energy, had reverted to its natural state, though Elara could feel the subtle traces of disturbance still lingering. It was as though the very fabric of reality had been stretched too far and would never quite return to its original form.
She stood, supported by Thorne, her body still aching from the exertion. Morgana, too, looked exhausted but relieved. The crystal around Elara's neck, though no longer pulsating with power, seemed to hum softly in the silence, its presence a constant reminder of the strange connection it held with the forces of magic.
"We should make camp," Morgana said, her voice quieter than usual, her eyes scanning the horizon. "The journey back will take time, and we need to recover."
