The Dominion's camp buzzed with subdued urgency as the disciples prepared for the unknown. The news of coordinated enemy movements spread quickly, stoking a mix of anticipation and dread. Though the shadow wards had been repaired, the memory of Seris's last assault lingered like a bruise.
Kael stood at the center of the camp, his expression calm but sharp. The shard and ring pulsed steadily in his hands, their energy a quiet reminder of the Abyss's growing influence. He could feel the weight of the disciples' eyes on him, their trust hanging in the balance.
"Whatever's coming," Kael said quietly, "we'll face it."
Strengthening Defenses
Zereth moved among the wards, his hands weaving intricate patterns of shadow energy. The barriers shimmered with dark light, their reinforced edges glowing faintly in the early morning haze. He glanced at Kael as he approached, his expression measured.
"The wards are stronger now," Zereth said. "But they won't hold forever. If this new threat is anything like Seris…"
Kael nodded. "Then we'll deal with it. One step at a time."
Zereth hesitated. "And if the disciples aren't ready?"
Kael's gaze hardened. "Then we make sure they are."
Preparing for Battle
Ryn led a group of disciples through advanced drills, her blade moving with sharp precision as she demonstrated Abyssal techniques. The air crackled with energy as the disciples followed her lead, their movements growing more fluid and deliberate with each strike.
"Control your power," Ryn instructed, her voice steady. "The Abyss gives, but it also takes. Don't let it control you."
Sylas watched from the sidelines, their smirk faint but present. "You know, if I didn't know better, I'd say you're trying to turn them into actual soldiers."
Ryn shot them a look. "And you're still not helping."
Sylas shrugged. "I'm morale support. Very important."
Kael joined them, his presence steadying the group. "Keep them focused," he said to Ryn. "They'll need it."
A Scout's Warning
As the sun dipped below the horizon, a scout returned from the northern plains, their face pale but determined. Vaelon intercepted them near the edge of the camp, his tone sharp.
"What did you see?" Vaelon asked.
The scout hesitated before answering. "It's not an army, but it's coordinated. Small groups, moving quickly. And they're using the Abyss."
Kael approached, his grip tightening on the Abyssal Fang. "How close?"
"Half a day's march," the scout replied. "Maybe less."
Ryn frowned. "If they're using the Abyss, they might know how to counter our defenses."
Kael nodded, his gaze distant. "Then we don't wait for them to strike. We take the fight to them."
A Calculated Risk
Kael called a meeting of the senior disciples in the central tent. Zereth, Ryn, Sylas, and Vaelon stood around the table, their expressions a mix of determination and concern.
"We can't let them dictate the terms," Kael began. "If they're using the Abyss, they're dangerous. But if we strike first, we can disrupt their momentum."
Zereth crossed his arms. "It's a risk. If they're expecting us, we could walk into a trap."
Ryn leaned forward, her brow furrowed. "But if we wait, they'll hit us when we're vulnerable. This might be our best chance."
Sylas tilted their head, their smirk faint. "And what if this is exactly what they want? Us running into the dark, hoping for the best?"
Kael's gaze didn't waver. "Then we make sure they don't get what they want."
The Abyss's Whisper
That night, Kael stood alone near the Obsidian Altar. The shard and ring glowed softly in the darkness, their energy resonating with the Abyss's whispers. Shadows coiled around him like living things, their movements deliberate and foreboding.
"You walk the edge," the voices said. "The Abyss demands more."
Kael closed his eyes, the weight of their words pressing heavily on him. He could feel the Abyss pulling at him, its presence sharper than ever.
"I know," Kael murmured. "And I'll give it what it needs—just not more than I can spare."
The March Begins
As dawn broke, the Dominion's forces moved out, their shadows stretching long against the barren landscape. Ryn walked beside Kael, her blade resting on her shoulder. Zereth and Sylas flanked the main group, their sharp eyes scanning the horizon.
Vaelon approached, his tone low. "The scouts have marked a likely spot for an ambush. If they're moving as fast as we think, they'll be there by nightfall."
Kael nodded. "Then we'll meet them there."
The shard and ring pulsed in his hands, their energy a steady beat against his growing resolve. Whatever waited for them in the shadows, Kael knew one thing for certain—the Dominion would not fall.
End of Chapter 72