The silence in the aftermath of the merge was deafening. Elara stood at the heart of the chamber, feeling as though the world itself had taken a deep breath and held it. The relic in her hand seemed almost alive now, pulsing softly in rhythm with her own heartbeat. It was no longer a mere object of power; it had become a part of her—woven into her very essence.
Thorne and Morgana exchanged looks, both unsure of what to make of the sudden stillness. They had felt the energy of the merge, but they hadn't experienced it as Elara had. The connection between her and the relic was unique, and whatever had happened, it had left its mark on her.
"What now?" Morgana's voice was a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might shatter the fragile peace that had settled over the chamber.
