After hours of relentless combat, the Nighthral finally collapsed beneath the massive figure of Vulkris. Its once-menacing form was now riddled with wounds, thorns embedded deep in its flesh. Its eyes fluttered weakly, struggling to stay open.
"This…"
"Finally!"
"We did it!"
"Yeheeey!"
The elves, both atop the Grand Velzar and within the safety of Aetherthorn, erupted in celebration. They watched the monstrous predator squirm helplessly on the ground, its body twitching like a broken animal struck by an unseen force.
The impact of its fall shook the earth with a deafening thud, sending loose dirt and leaves into the air. For the first time in hours, the forest exhaled. The elves did too, their lungs burning with relief.
Yes, they could breathe again-but only for a moment.
Because almost immediately, Vulkris' molten eyes shifted and locked onto the towering figure of the Grand Velzar.
