They continued walking through the long tunnel leading toward the exit. The glowing veins of mana dimmed behind them, fading like the heartbeat of something ancient returning to rest.
When they finally stepped into the open, a rush of cool air met them—fresh, salty, and alive. Before them stretched the coastal city of Bluewave, its towers rising like coral spires and its streets paved with blue-tinted stone that shimmered faintly under the light of the setting sun. The ocean beyond glowed with silver light, waves rolling gently against the docks where ships of every shape and color swayed.
As the party emerged from the dungeon entrance, Lyra paused, staring wide-eyed at the vast horizon. The scent of the sea filled her lungs, and for a moment, her expression softened into something between joy and sorrow.
"…The world still breathes," she whispered.
Aria stretched her arms. "Finally, fresh air! I thought I'd start growing mold in that dungeon."
