Chapter 142: The Aftermath.

The sun was rising over the village, and every light it cast was soft and golden in the aftermath of the battle. The sounds of celebration had died, replaced with the quiet hum of villagers beginning to rebuild. Chloe and Liam stood side by side at the center of the village, looking at the damage and the scattered remnants of the fight. "We did it then," Chloe murmured, a mixed lilt of relief and exhaustion in her voice, "but now, we've got to help our village heal." Liam nodded, an expression in his eyes scanning the scene. "Yes, there is so much to do, but we are all together, and we will rebuild better than ever." The villagers were, though worn out, filled with a sense of triumph and unity. They had fought against a great enemy and emerged victorious, thanks in significant part to Chloe and Liam. The couple moved among their friends and neighbors, offering encouragement and helping with the cleanup. Working children had found fallen branches and weedy stones to pelt at the spot