Chapter 52: Shadows Retreat The canyon was a fight of light and shadow, the golden brilliance of Raiden’s weapon colliding with the dark energy Giovanni commanded. Each strike rocked the air, the ground shuddering beneath the sheer intensity of their blows. Draco’s flames erupted, illuminating the battlefield as he circled above, targeting the towering shadow monstrosity Giovanni had summoned. The shadow beast lunged, its claws slicing through the air with uncanny speed. Raiden spun, almost missing the hit as he replied with a sweeping slice of his blade. The golden runes along the blade blazed, cutting through the beast’s arm. It let forth a guttural growl, its severed limb melting into vapor. “Impressive,” Giovanni cried from across the clearing, his voice cutting through the commotion. He stood with disconcerting calm, his scarlet cloak billowing in the heat of the flames. “But even you can’t sustain this forever, Raiden. Light passes, and shadows endure.” Raiden wiped

Chapter 54:Damaged Foundations The arrows poured down, their pointed tips slashing through the air with deadly precision. Raiden raised his sword, its glowing runes throwing a protective barrier of light over the warriors closest to him. The arrows that struck the barrier melted into harmless sparks, while others found their marks, piercing the ground and shields with unsettling force. “Hold the line!” Raiden’s voice boomed out, authoritative and forceful. Lucan stood to his left, grasping his sword once more, his face pale but determined. “They’re testing us,” he murmured. “Trying to rattle our defenses before the real attack begins.” Raiden gazed at him, his voice quiet but forceful. “Then let’s show them we don’t break so easily.” Kaela appeared at his side, her bow already nocked. “We need to hit them back, or they’ll keep pressing until we fall apart.” Raiden nodded. “Take your scouts and flank their archers. We’ll hold the main line here.” Kaela’s quick eyes f

Raiden stood at the center of the clearing, his golden sword resting point-down in the dirt. His eyes traveled across the warriors assembled before him, his words firm but conveying the weight of command. “We’ve survived the first storm,” he added, addressing the gathering. “But survival isn’t enough. If we stay like this—fractured, suspicious, and divided—then Morgana doesn’t need to destroy us. We’ll do it for her.” His comments settled over the assembly like an iron shroud, evoking murmurs of agreement and shame. Kaela, standing near the edge of the circle, crossed her arms and nodded. “He’s right. Last night wasn’t just about Morgana—it was a mirror. It showed us what we’ve become, and it’s not pretty.” Rurik stepped forward, his enormous stature imposing even amid the soldiers. “Then what do we do, Raiden? How do we fix this? Because right now, we’re holding together by a thread.” Raiden lifted his blade, its golden brilliance catching the sunlight. “We rebuild.

Chapter 58: Whispers of the GoneThe Iron flame camp sank into a nervous calm as the hum of energy from the trees got stronger. The flickering flames created unsettling shadows on the rough-hewn tents, their light wavering as though afraid of the encroaching darkness. Raiden’s palm rested on the hilt of his sword, the golden runes shimmering softly as if responding to the disturbance. Draco’s harsh snarl rang in his mind. “It’s the same presence from before, Raiden. Whatever it is, it’s growing stronger.” Leader Thorne’s rough voice pierced the calm. “You’ve brought something with you, Raiden. Explain yourself.” Raiden glanced to Thorne, his look harsh. “I didn’t bring it. This isn’t a weapon of war—it’s something older, something worse. And it’s not just pursuing my tribe; it’s after all of us.” Thorne’s piercing eyes narrowed. “You’re saying this... thing is the reason you’re here seeking alliances?” “Yes,” Raiden answered firmly. “Morgana is dangerous, but she’s not

Chapter 60: An Impending disaster The Elthorn camp was a bustle of activity as Raiden marched into its heart, his sword sheathed but gleaming softly, a constant reminder of the strength they faced. Warriors were polishing their blades, scouts transmitted signals between clans, and supplies were arranged in orderly, precarious stacks. Yet, despite the evident preparations, an undercurrent of uneasiness flowed through the air. Raiden stopped near the central fire, where Kaela and Rurik were embroiled in a heated dispute concerning deployment plans. Kaela’s harsh voice broke through the din. “We need more scouts on the southern ridge,” she said. “If Morgana sends her forces, that’s where they’ll hit first. It’s the weakest area in our defenses.” Rurik shook his head, his enormous arms crossed. “No, the eastern flank is the real vulnerability. If they come from the east, they can advance straight into the camp before we even recognize it.” Raiden lifted a hand, silencing them.