Silence lingered after their descent, filled only by the distant wind brushing across ruined ground.
For a few moments no one spoke because they were all just too tired, too drained, and still trying to accept that the pressure crushing the world moments ago was truly gone.
Billy finally let out a shaky laugh, rubbing his face with both hands.
"I thought… I really thought that was it for us."
Adrien nodded. "I feel the same. The air feels different and lighter now."
King Gulben looked up at the sky, his expression solemn but relieved.
"Whatever that battle above cost, it saved this world. For that, you have the gratitude of the Elves… and more than that, our lives."
Erend inclined his head slightly. He did not smile. The weight of Krono's absence still pressed against his chest.
"Well, it's over now," he said. "That's what matters now."
Aurdis drifted closer to him, her eyes lingering on Erend longer than necessary.
