The descent from the Black Spire was a quiet one, but the tension was palpable. The forest around them was still, save for the faint rustle of leaves as the wind whispered through the trees. Damien led the group with swift, measured strides, his steel-gray eyes focused on the horizon as the spire disappeared behind them.
Vale's words still echoed in his mind, a chilling reminder of the looming threat: "The pieces are already in motion."
Amara broke the silence first, her sharp blue eyes darting toward Damien as she adjusted her daggers. "So, what now? Vale's clearly ready to move, and we're still a step behind."
Carys, walking at Damien's other side, frowned as she slung her crossbow over her shoulder. "He's more than ready. If his army is as large as it seems, he's not just planning to disrupt the crown—he's planning to take it."
