Chapter 52: Echoes of Darkness

As the morning sun climbed higher over Andriel, the city's inhabitants began to emerge from their homes, cautiously taking in the quiet streets and the clear, mist-free air. Ryuto and his team watched from the steps of the mayor's hall, feeling the lingering relief of victory. But beneath that relief lay an awareness of the challenges that still lay ahead.

The mayor, still looking weary but grateful, approached them with a solemn expression. "Thanks to you, we're safe. But Xyldrin's cult, will they return?"

Celeste stepped forward, speaking calmly but firmly. "We've dealt a serious blow to their presence here, but they're part of a larger network. It's possible they'll try to regain their influence. We can't let our guard down."

Ryuto nodded in agreement. "Mayor, if you can keep watch over the city and protect your people, we'll take care of tracking down any remnants of the cult. Xyldrin's followers may try to regroup, but we'll be there to stop them."