Prince Alexios Devereux, the foremost candidate for the throne, stood resolutely at his post, watching as his vast army deployed before the walls of Blackwood. The torches' flames danced in the darkness, reflecting the determination on his soldiers' faces. Banners fluttered in the wind, and the sound of horse hooves echoed like a harbinger of the imminent battle.
The army had been assembled rather hastily due to the prince's impatience. Even if it was less than half of the kingdom's total forces, the prince was confident; he believed that his mere presence would suffice to subdue the demon.
Blackwood's defenses, though robust, seemed deserted. The city had been evacuated over the past week, and only a small group remained inside: Ethan, Aria, and Lyra, ready to face the looming threat. The tension was palpable as the Ardyn army advanced, their seemingly endless lines marching towards the city.
