As the Aetherwing Skiff vanished into the distant horizon, Victor exhaled sharply, turning to Keira and Alice. His expression shifted from solemn resolve to immediate action. The cool night breeze carried the scent of damp earth and iron—a silent prelude to a battle they didn't realize was imminent.
"Alright, let's make sure everything is in order," Victor commanded, his tone crisp and authoritative.
Keira, her sharp brown eyes gleaming with determination, nodded. "I'll check the defensive wards and reinforce our magical barriers. We can't afford any weak points." Her voice was a knife's edge, cutting through the thickening tension.
Victor gave a firm nod, his jaw set. "I'm counting on you, Keira. We need to always be ready."