The pillar of light beamed down like a divine lance, engulfing the entire town and its surroundings in blinding brilliance.
Everyone shielded their eyes instinctively. For nearly a full minute, the world was nothing but pure white.
And then, silence
No more monstrous growls. Only the faint crackling of lingering flames… and the distant chirping of crickets.
"Was that light…from the ancient weapon?" Lukas asked, his voice hushed in awe.
"I think so," Ted replied, equally stunned.
"Do you think… anyone could survive that light?" Rick asked, eyes scanning the glowing remnants in the distance.
"I hope so," the mayor said solemnly, clutching his staff tighter.
They had expected the worst. They feared the ancient weapon's blast would wipe the town clean off the map. But as their eyes adjusted and the light finally faded, the town was still there.
Nothing had changed.
