The match with Lyra had left Damien exhausted, but the sense of accomplishment bolstered his spirits. After a brief rest, he returned to the Ashenblade quarters within the Nightraven estate. Selene and Kael were waiting, their expressions a mix of pride and curiosity.

“That was one hell of a fight,” Selene said, handing him a flask of water. “You looked like you were on the edge there for a while.”

Damien chuckled, taking a sip. “She’s fast, precise. It’s like fighting a storm of blades.”

Kael nodded, his arms crossed. “You adapted well. That’s what matters.”

Before they could continue, a soft knock at the door drew their attention. Lyra stepped in, her presence as calm and composed as ever.

“I hope I’m not interrupting,” she said, her gaze flicking between the siblings.

Selene waved her off. “Not at all. Come in.”

Lyra stepped forward, her expression thoughtful. “I wanted to discuss something with Damien.”

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Selene and Kael exchanged glances but nodded, stepping out to give them privacy. Once they were alone, Lyra turned to Damien.

“There’s more to this gathering than just our trials,” she said, her voice low. “The leaders of our families are preparing for something. Something big.”

Damien frowned. “You’re talking about the Rifts.”

Lyra nodded. “The activity beyond the borders has been escalating. Creatures stronger and more organized than anything we’ve faced before. Our families are preparing for war.”

Damien’s grip on Ebonfang tightened. “And they want us to lead the charge.”

Lyra’s gaze was steady. “They’re testing us now to see if we’re ready. But make no mistake—the real battle is coming.”

The weight of her words settled over Damien, but instead of fear, he felt a surge of determination. He had come this far, and he wouldn’t back down now.

“We’ll be ready,” he said firmly. “Whatever comes, we’ll face it together.”

Lyra studied him for a moment, then nodded. “I believe you will.”

With that, she turned and left, leaving Damien alone with his thoughts. The path ahead was growing clearer, and with each challenge, he felt himself rising to meet it. The trials were far from over, but for the first time, Damien felt truly prepared for what lay ahead.