The dawn of their departure came far too soon. The light of the early morning sun cast long shadows across the courtyard of Valoran, where the army was already assembled. Soldiers, warriors, and allies from far and wide stood ready, their faces a mixture of determination and solemnity. They had all seen what was at stake, and now, they would march east toward Volkaria, toward war.
James stood at the head of the gathered forces, his eyes scanning the sea of faces. It was humbling to see so many willing to fight for a cause that wasn't their own, a testament to how far the reach of darkness had grown and how unified the world had become in the face of it. Sasha, Yori, and Pippy stood with him, their weapons at their sides, ready for what lay ahead.
