The mist over Dravien began to thin, but the village's broken silence spoke louder than any voice.
Kaien stood at the center, blade still humming softly with residual Abyssal energy. Around him, the remnants of the Veil's illusions flickered and faded like dying embers.
Elias approached slowly, eyes heavy but burning with something fierce. "You did well. Abyssal Rift... it's more than a weapon. It's a revelation."
Kaien sheathed his sword, feeling the weight of newfound responsibility settle on his shoulders. "I only did what had to be done. But this is just the beginning, isn't it?"
Iria emerged from the shadows, her gaze sharp. "The Veil will not stay beaten for long. They'll come back stronger."
Solryn nodded, frost glittering in his hair. "Their reach is deeper than we imagined."
A sudden tremor ran through the earth, small but deliberate.
Kaien's eyes narrowed. "The Veil's roots are fracturing the world itself."
Elias placed a hand on Kaien's shoulder. "Which means the real battle is still ahead. The Keywrought's shards will draw more of their forces. We have to be ready."
Kaien's shadow curled tightly around him, a silent promise. "Then we break their veil — no matter the cost."