The first light of dawn crept over the horizon, casting a soft golden hue over the fortress. The quiet that had settled in the night was replaced by the sounds of preparation. Elara woke to the familiar rhythm of boots on stone and the murmur of voices, a sign that the army was already stirring.
She rose from her bed, the weight of sleep dragging at her limbs. Despite her exhaustion, there was no time to linger. The urgency of their mission demanded she be ready. She dressed quickly, slipping into her armor with practiced ease, and made her way to the courtyard.
Outside, the fortress was a hive of activity. Soldiers loaded provisions onto their mounts, while mages gathered their artifacts and magical supplies. The air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the oppressive darkness that had settled over them in recent days. But the sense of hope was tempered by the looming threat that hovered over their journey.
