As the dispute settled into an uneasy truce between the Alliance and the forces aligned against the Pillars, the subsequent week passed swiftly, paving the way for the arrival of a colossal armada. The convergence of forces from every corner of the world showcased a diverse array of beings, from the Elven woodlands to the industrious Dwarven strongholds.
The fleet, a breathtaking display of unity, featured warriors, Legionnaires, and wizards from various regions. Orcs, halflings, humans, golems, and even exotic figures like tree people and sea creatures joined the formidable assembly, turning the Alliance into a force numbering in the millions. The seas whispered secrets, and anticipation hung heavy in the air as the vast armada prepared for the imminent clash with the Pillars.
Despite the uneasy truce, the coalition found itself once again pitted against their mortal enemy—the church. To the south lay Averox's Pond, a legendary realm known as the birthing ground of Krakens and other sea monsters. Tales spoke of Averox, the mythical father of these formidable beings, holding dominion over the mysterious depths of the pond. The ancient sea creatures might have chosen this moment to make their presence known if they sensed such a force in their waters, yet the pond remained silent.
Sophia and Mike marveled at the size of their united front, a testament to their efforts to gather allies. The legend of Valicar had turned her into a mystical figure, and rumors of her feats—defeating the Pillar of the East and calling upon a dragon against the Pillar of the South—had spread far and wide. The awe-inspiring alliance they had amassed now stood as a testament to their profound impact on the world, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation with the Pillars and the church.
As the forces came ashore, Gorlion assumed command, swiftly organizing defensive positions for the impending march north. Meanwhile, Spellweaver, known for their mastery of magic, took charge of scouting and set powerful wards around the force to enhance their security.
Altheack, with her dual role as a leader of two nations and the master of the floating fortress, took on crucial diplomatic responsibilities. She went to meet the leaders of the force, her role pivotal in holding the alliance together. Her ability to navigate the complexities of diplomacy was as critical as Valicar's contributions.
The day they had looked forward to since Helmhold had finally arrived. They now possessed the strength to challenge the empire and the church on their own turf. While Deathtooth remained hidden, the twins were certain that Zaltheral would play a critical role in the upcoming battle, despite James' opinion of the man. They recognized that, for now, Zaltheral and his cult were assets to be utilized, but the twins were resolute that they would be dealt with once their usefulness had come to an end.
"We can win now," Sophia marveled at the sight of the army as they departed the ships and made camp.
"They might be a useful distraction, but you know it will come down to us making it into that vault," Mike replied, doubting the army against the Pillar of the North.
"We have strong allies now.... we will still need the vault to fix our souls, but we might be able to win like this, especially if Zaltheral comes through," Sophia said, hope in her voice.
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"You think this force could challenge that damn dragon... sorry Soph, it ain't happening, and you have way too much faith in that bastard," Mike said as the twins pondered the memory of the dragon that had killed the Pillar of the South.
The march north began with a resolute sense of purpose, the united forces of the Alliance traversing lands scarred by civil war. Along the way, they encountered small bands of Templars dispatched to hinder their progress. These skirmishes were swiftly dealt with, showcasing the might of the Alliance.
As the forces pressed forward, they extended a welcoming hand to civilians seeking refuge from the oppressive rule of the Pillars and the church. The vast armada, now a moving city, marched with civilians in tow. The Alliance provided not only military strength but also compassion, offering food, shelter, and protection, fostering a profound sense of solidarity among the refugees.
Weeks passed as the Alliance marched through landscapes transforming from church-controlled desolation to untamed wilderness. On the horizon loomed a formidable challenge—the newly appointed Pillar of the East, Bellic, marked by a flaring golden tattoo on his face.
Bellic's presence sent shockwaves through the Alliance, prompting urgent strategy meetings among Gorlion, Spellweaver, Altheack, and Valicar. Alongside Bellic stood the recovered Pillar of the West, representing an unparalleled force.
As the march slowed, anticipation hung in the air. The golden tattoo on Bellic's face shimmered with divine power, a stark reminder of the Pillars' might. Spellweaver, angered by the sight, reflected on his past—once fleeing from two Pillars. Now, with the strength of the Alliance and formidable warriors like Valicar and Gorlion, they dared to challenge these legendary foes in a daring duel.
Memories of the twins' previous encounter with the Pillar of the East surfaced in Valicar's mind. Armed with a magical nuke, they had slain the last Pillar of the East, leaving Bellic as the lone survivor who could only flee. Bellic's desperate survival led to his elevation by the Pillar of the North, bestowing upon him the power of the divine through the golden tattoo.
This rare honor marked Bellic as one of the church's most trusted. As the Alliance faced these powerful adversaries, they understood the gravity of challenging Pillars wielding divine power capable of reshaping the battlefield—any one of them a challenge for even the Archmage.
The stage was set for a confrontation transcending mortal limitations. Spellweaver, Valicar, Gorlion, and the twins prepared for a duel with foes holding the might of the Pillars. The air crackled with anticipation as the clash between mortals and god-like beings loomed—a battle shaping the destiny of the world.
"Damn these Pillars! We've come too far to back down now," muttered Spellweaver, his frustration evident.
"I thought you killed that bastard," Sophia asked, anger tinging her voice as she eyed Bellic from across the battlefield.
"He should be dead, yet another reminder not to underestimate this enemy," Gorlion spoke solemnly.
Mike, standing by his side, added with a clenched fist, "They won't escape this time. We'll make sure of it." The anger and determination in their voices echoed the sentiments of the entire Alliance as they readied themselves for the impending confrontation.
"Make him pay, Mike," Altheack whispered into Valicar's ear, her hand tracing over her missing eye—the price extracted by the last Pillar of the East. Memories of the torture endured at Bellic's hand flooded her mind. As the mundane troops assumed battle formations, a palpable tension filled the air.
With a determined nod, Mike unsheathed Red Noon. Its crimson blade ignited with an intense flame as his rage fed its power. The crowd's cheers fueled his demonic pact, pushing his abilities to newfound heights. The battlefield transformed into a chaotic scene of magic as he swung his blade, sending an arch of red flame over the heads of the crowd before it clashed with the Pillar's golden barrier spell. The clash marked the beginning of this legendary battle.