Cruzer and Elara rested in silence, wrapped in each other's embrace beneath the sheltering canopy of the ancient tree.
The fatigue from the recent battle slowly melted away, leaving a sense of calm that felt almost surreal. After a while, Cruzer gently shifted, placing a hand on Elara's back.
"Ready to see what's next?" he asked softly, a hint of curiosity mingling with the wariness in his voice.
Elara lifted her head, eyes bright despite her exhaustion, and nodded. "Let's go. But if it's anything like that last monstrosity, I'm filing a complaint with the universe."
They shared a small chuckle, and together, they approached the portal. The faint glow it emitted had grown steadier, the surface shimmering like rippling water.
Cruzer took a deep breath and extended his hand toward the portal, feeling the familiar sensation of energy wrapping around them both as they stepped forward.
