Tensions within the Iron Order began to rise as word of Shadow's blade spread. Some knights whispered that the weapon was cursed and that Shadow had brought doom upon them.
A rival knight, Sir Edran, openly challenged Shadow's honor during a council meeting. "A blade of darkness has no place among us," Edran declared. "You risk the very soul of this Order."
The confrontation escalated into a duel. Shadow, reluctant to use the black blade against one of his own, fought with a standard longsword. Despite Edran's strength and skill, Shadow's determination and agility won the day.
Though Shadow proved his worth, the seeds of distrust had been sown. Even Alaric began to question how far Shadow would go to wield the blade's power.