Staring at the shattered remains of the golem from atop the tower, Elius turned sharply, almost colliding with a mercenary stationed nearby. "Move!" he barked, but the mercenary stood his ground, extending a hand to reveal a small, glowing pebble.
Elius recognized it instantly—a stone etched with intricate carvings, glowing a faint blue from the mana coursing through it. He took the pebble, his expression darkening as Nessarose's gentle yet commanding voice drifted through.
"The final preparations are in place. I have granted you strength, Elius—now do your duty, and greater rewards will follow."
Elius nodded, handing the pebble back before striding to the edge of the tower. His gaze swept over the battlefield below as he extended his hand, focusing on the Veridinian magicians teleporting soldiers across the field. He took a slow breath, his eyes casting a faint blue mist as seven circles materialized around him, humming with energy.
