Keystones of the Abyss

As the first rays of dawn bathed the land in a soft golden light, the group stood in silence, the weight of their victory settling in. The shattered pieces of the keystone in Erynn's hands were a symbol of the battle fought, the price paid, and the world they had saved—for now.

Kaelith's gaze lingered on the horizon, her eyes narrowing as if sensing the long road ahead. "The world doesn't change with a single blow," she said, her voice distant but resolute. "It's a constant battle. But you've learned something important today."

Erynn's grip tightened on the fragments, a quiet strength emanating from her. "We've learned that we can win... even against the darkness." She looked to each of her companions—Alaric, Kian, and Kaelith—and the bond between them, forged in the fire of battle, was undeniable.

"Maybe we're not done yet," Kian added with a grin, trying to lighten the moment, though there was a hint of uncertainty in his voice. "But we've got this. Together."

Alaric nodded, his expression grim yet hopeful. "Whatever the Abyssal Order set in motion, it won't be over for a long time. But we'll stop it, piece by piece."

Kaelith turned to them, her eyes sharper than ever. "And when the time comes, we'll be ready. Because whatever comes next," she said, her voice steady, "we face it as one."

With that, they turned their backs to the crumbling fortress, the last traces of darkness fading behind them. Their journey had only just begun, but for now, the world was a little brighter, and the weight of the burden seemed a little lighter.

As the sun rose higher, the group walked forward, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them, knowing that as long as they stood together, there was no force that could defeat them.