The celebrations in Valdris continued for days, a citywide acknowledgment of the victory at Stormveil Hollow. Yet, within the walls of the Citadel, the leaders and warriors prepared for the next chapter. Damien and his team had little time to rest, their thoughts consumed by the looming threat hinted at by the Rift Entity.

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THE COUNCIL’S DECISION

The Council of Four convened once more in the war room, their faces marked by the weight of Damien’s revelations.

“We’ve won a decisive battle,” Morganna Nightraven began, her tone measured. “But this ‘cycle’ the Entity spoke of—it implies a threat beyond our world.”

Lyanna Silverthorn nodded. “If Damien’s visions are accurate, we’re dealing with forces that could unravel reality itself.”

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Garrick Drakenshield leaned forward, his hands gripping the edge of the table. “We need to expand our defenses. Strengthen every border, fortify our cities.”

Damien stood beside his father, Alaric. “It’s more than just defense,” he said. “We need to understand what’s coming. The Rift Entity wasn’t just a warrior; it was a harbinger. We need knowledge, allies, and preparation for a war that will make this one look small.”

Alaric met his son’s gaze. “Then we must seek out the ancient orders—the ones who once stood against the forces beyond the Rifts.”

Morganna’s eyes narrowed. “You mean the Order of the Shattered Star.”

Damien nodded. “If they still exist, they’ll have the answers we need.”