The Golden Vanguard of the Aurion Dominion launched a second assault on the southern border of Amber Heavens. Their solar magic clashed against the Amber Veil, but the newly empowered soldiers of the Flame Division met them head-on. Eydon, leading the charge, unleashed waves of fire that overwhelmed the Vanguard, forcing their retreat.
In the north, Frostveil's raiding parties tested the empire's defenses, only to be repelled by the Frost Sentinels. High Jarl Thrysk observed the battles from a distance, impressed by the empire's strength. "This is no ordinary kingdom," he admitted to his advisors. "Perhaps diplomacy is the wiser path."
The Aetherion Ascendancy, meanwhile, hesitated. Archmage Lytheris prepared her forces, but dissent among her council delayed any decisive action. Several archmages argued that Lyrus might be open to an alliance, especially given his recent rise as a stabilizing force in the region.