The climb was grueling. The jagged path up the mountain seemed never-ending, each step taking them higher into the desolate peaks of Volkaria. The air grew thinner, the wind colder, and the oppressive weight of Valek's dark magic was palpable with every breath they took. James led the group, Zeldor strapped to his back, its weight somehow comforting despite the danger that loomed ahead.
At last, they reached the summit and stopped at a ledge overlooking the valley below. A collective gasp escaped the group as they looked down into the Valley of Darkness, where Valek's castle loomed like a shadow given form. The fortress was massive, its spires rising high into the sky like jagged teeth, surrounded by swirling black clouds. A moat of blood-red water encircled the walls, and beyond it, the army of creatures that guarded the castle waited.
