Returning to their base, they were met with more bad news. Morgath's forces had tightened their grip on the capital, and the situation was growing dire. Reports from their allies spoke of increasing brutality and the systematic dismantling of Thaloria's defenses.
Aldric, still recovering from the ordeal in the Shadow Realm, listened to the reports with a heavy heart. He knew they needed to act quickly, but he also knew that rushing in without a plan could lead to disaster.
"We need a strategy," Thane said, spreading out a map of the capital. "A direct assault would be suicide. We need to find a way to infiltrate the city and free the royal family."
Lira stepped forward, her expression determined. "I know a way. There's a network of underground tunnels that lead directly into the heart of the city. Morgath's forces don't know about them. We can use them to get in and out undetected."
Elysia nodded, her eyes blazing with resolve. "Then that's our plan. We'll gather our allies and use the tunnels to launch a surprise attack."
As they prepared for the mission, Aldric felt a mixture of hope and fear. The weight of the prophecy, the burden of the cursed key, and the responsibility to save his kingdom all pressed down on him. But he knew that with his friends by his side, they had a chance.
The night before the mission, Aldric found himself unable to sleep. He walked through the camp, finding solace in the quiet and the stars above. He knew that the coming battle would test them all, but he was determined to see it through.
As dawn broke, they gathered their forces and set out for the capital. The tunnels were dark and claustrophobic, but they pressed on, guided by Lira's knowledge of the city's hidden pathways.
When they emerged in the heart of the city, the sight that greeted them was one of devastation. Buildings lay in ruins, and the streets were filled with the remnants of battle. Morgath's soldiers patrolled the area, their presence a constant threat.
They moved silently, avoiding detection as they made their way to the palace. Aldric could feel the tension in the air, the anticipation of the coming confrontation.
As they approached the royal family's quarters, they were confronted by a group of Morgath's elite guards. A fierce battle ensued, and Aldric