The Celestial tree shuddered in response, as though recognizing a peer... or perhaps, something even higher.
For the first time it felt fear, and began to rise faster, as if trying to escape this world itself.
The cultivators, their fear momentarily subdued, watched in silence. The two Celestials stood opposed across the broken sky, one born of corruption and despair, the other radiating calm divinity.
In that instant, the very air grew still.
Every creature in the Marshes of Silent Skies felt the world itself hold its breath.
The Abbot pressed his palms together and bowed. "May the Heavens forgive the sins of the fallen," he whispered.
The Saintess extended her hand once more, and the clouds swelled outward, enveloping the remaining armies. Her divine Qi cascaded like a waterfall, restoring vitality and easing the crippling weight of the Celestial aura pressing upon them.
