The group took a cautious step forward, the forest still thick with shadow but now free of the immediate threat. The pool's purple haze had dissipated, and the corrupted creatures had retreated into the underbrush, shaking off the lingering influence. Lira let out a slow breath, feeling the Spirit shard pulse gently, as if approving their actions.
Serelyth, still in her majestic dragon form, landed near the group. "The relic is secure above, but this forest… it's not entirely cleansed. Some corruption lingers. We need to be careful as we move."
Renkai sniffed the air, crouched low. "I sense tracks. Not many, but… something is moving ahead. Could be other corrupted creatures—or… someone alive."
Maelin adjusted her fire gloves, her eyes scanning the trees. "I vote we stick together. Last thing we need is to split up in this darkness."
Patricia nodded, brushing the dirt off her cloak. "Agreed. And let's keep an eye on the skies too. Whatever attacked the pool may have allies."
