Chapter 202 The Bonds Of Power

• The village in Malonir had been saved, but as the last of the curse lifted, Ariella felt the weight of her destiny settle more heavily on her shoulders. The villagers celebrated around her, offering thanks and gifts, but her heart wasn’t in the festivities. Every moment, every encounter, felt like a step further away from the truth she was meant to uncover.
• Mara’s gratitude had been endless, and she had promised to guide Ariella and Lysandra to the nearest border of Ilthoria. "I know you’re headed for greater challenges," Mara had said, her eyes glimmering with a mix of respect and awe. "But you’ve done for my people what none could. If you ever need a place to rest, my village will always be open to you."
• Ariella nodded, her thoughts already moving forward. "Thank you, Mara. You gave me a reason to continue. Now, it’s time to move forward."