Chapter 5: Battle of the Borders*
The negotiations with Gorthok had barely begun when a commotion erupted outside the stronghold. Shouts and clashing steel echoed through the halls as Elyria's dragon riders clashed with Gorgoroth's orcish warriors.
Lord Roshan appeared, his dragon form radiating fury. "Gorthok, you deceive me?" he thundered.
Gorthok sneered. "No deception, Dragon Lord. My warriors grew impatient."
Princess Elise rushed forward. "Stop this! We're on the brink of alliance!"
But the battle raged on. Lord Roshan's dragon fire scorched the stronghold, while Gorthok's warriors countered with dark magic.
Lyra joined the fray, unleashing elemental forces to drive back the orcs. Princess Elise, caught in the chaos, dodged deadly blows.
As the fight intensified, Lord Roshan confronted Gorthok. Their clash shook the foundations of the stronghold.
"You should have accepted my offer," Lord Roshan declared.
Gorthok snarled. "I'll never yield!"
The outcome hung in the balance. Elyria's dominance or Gorgoroth's victory – only one could prevail.
Suddenly, Princess Elise intervened, her voice piercing the din. "Lord Roshan, halt! This senseless bloodshed will destroy all!"
Lord Roshan hesitated, his gaze locking onto Princess Elise. For an instant, the battle paused.
Gorthok seized the momentary distraction. "Strike now!" he bellowed.
But Lord Roshan countered, his dragon fire engulfing Gorthok's warriors. The tide turned in Elyria's favor.
As the stronghold fell, Gorthok fled, vowing vengeance. Lord Roshan declared victory, his dominance over Gorgoroth solidified.
Princess Elise approached, her eyes burning with concern. "Lord Roshan, at what cost?"
Lord Roshan's expression softened. "You've shown me another path, Princess. One I'll consider."
The battle won, Lord Roshan's thoughts turned to the future – and the princess who'd changed his perspective.