The dawn of the new day arrived with a heavy stillness. The stronghold, usually bustling with activity, seemed subdued as the weight of the impending threat settled over the realm. Elara had barely slept, but she was determined not to let fatigue hinder their preparations.
She arrived early at the council chamber, the room still cool and untouched by the day's heat. Lord Darius, Seraphina, and Morgana were already there, their expressions somber and resolute. The silence between them spoke volumes, each person lost in their thoughts about the looming danger.
"Good morning," Elara greeted as she took her seat. "I trust the night was productive?"
Lord Darius nodded, his face lined with concern. "We've received a few more reports from our scouts. The fortress is indeed real, and it's growing. It's as if it's feeding off the darkness that has been unleashed."
Elara felt a shiver run down her spine. "Feeding off the darkness?"
