The victory at Shadowspire Keep sent ripples across the war-torn lands of Valdris. With another obelisk destroyed, the enemy’s grasp on the region weakened, but the fight was far from over. As Damien and his team returned to the Citadel, they were greeted with a grim reality—the enemy had already begun to regroup.
The Council of Four convened immediately. Maps littered the war room’s table, marked with new reports of Rift activity. Morganna Nightraven stood with arms crossed, her sharp gaze fixed on the glowing runes tracking enemy movements.
“Their forces are massing near Ironclad Summit,” she said. “It’s another critical site. If we don’t act quickly, they’ll solidify their position.”
Garrick Drakenshield grunted, his scarred hands gripping the edge of the table. “Ironclad Summit is a fortress in itself. High ground, limited access, and natural barriers. If they fortify it, we’ll bleed to take it back.”
Lyanna Silverthorn’s voice was calm but resolute. “And we cannot afford to lose momentum. Every obelisk we destroy weakens their network.”
Damien nodded, his eyes fixed on the map. “Then we strike first.”
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Alaric Ashenblade met his son’s gaze. “You’ll lead the assault, Damien. Take your team and a battalion of our best soldiers. This mission will determine the course of the war.”
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A NEW CHALLENGE
The journey to Ironclad Summit was fraught with danger. The mountain paths were narrow and treacherous, and the ever-present hum of Rift energy made the air heavy. Damien led his team with unwavering focus, their determination bolstered by the gravity of their mission.
Cassian scouted ahead, his sharp eyes catching every movement in the shadows. “We’re being watched,” he said quietly, drawing his bow. “They’re testing our defenses.”
Lyra unsheathed her blades, her keen senses attuned to the slightest sound. “Let them. They’ll regret it.”
The group pressed on, reaching the base of the summit by nightfall. In the distance, the enemy’s stronghold loomed—a fortress of dark stone, its walls pulsing with the sinister light of the obelisk at its core.
Roland approached Damien, his shield slung across his back. “What’s the plan?”
Damien studied the fortress, his mind racing. “We split into two teams. One will create a diversion at the front gates, drawing their forces out. The other will infiltrate from the cliffs and strike the obelisk directly.”
Cassian smirked. “Guessing I’m on the infiltration team?”
Damien nodded. “You and Lyra will lead the infiltration. Roland and I will handle the diversion.”