Chapter 53: Breaking the Chains of Xyldrin

The stone box shattered into fragments, releasing a brilliant flash of light that radiated outward, searing through the shadow figures surrounding Ryuto and his team. The forest seemed to sigh as the oppressive energy dissipated, the air lightening as Xyldrin's influence was purged from the area. One by one, the shadowy figures dissolved, their forms disintegrating into harmless wisps of mist that floated away on the breeze.

Celeste lowered her staff, breathing heavily, her face pale but resolute. "That… should weaken Xyldrin's hold here. With the artifact destroyed, his influence will fade faster."

Ryuto nodded, watching as the last remnants of the shadows faded into nothingness. "That was definitely a powerful relic. If Xyldrin's cult left more of these around, we'll need to destroy each one to truly be rid of his influence."

Roland sheathed his sword, a look of grim satisfaction on his face. "That may be true, but at least Andriel is safe, for now."