The Aurion Dominion, humiliated by its earlier failure, doubled its efforts. Emperor Caelthar dispatched his Golden Vanguard, a handpicked force of warriors empowered by solar magic. Their objective was to find and exploit any weakness in the Amber Veil.
Meanwhile, the Frostveil Concord, led by High Jarl Thrysk, prepared a cautious approach. A faction of jarls pushed for a diplomatic meeting with Amber Heavens, but others demanded a coordinated attack alongside the Dominion. Frostveil's forces, known for their resilience, began assembling at the northern border.
In the Aetherion Ascendancy, Archmage Lytheris activated the Aether Nexus, planning to use its energy for a large-scale assault. However, dissent grew within the council. Some archmages questioned the wisdom of engaging Amber Heavens directly, proposing that they send emissaries instead.
As these preparations unfolded, the three empires found themselves divided. Some sought to ally with Lyrus, fearing his growing power, while others prepared for war.