Chapter 563: Chapter 563: The Pause Before the Panic

As dawn broke, the fortress was a flurry of activity, with soldiers and scholars alike preparing for the challenges ahead. The atmosphere was a blend of anxious anticipation and determined focus, each member of the stronghold fully aware of the gravity of their situation.

Elara stood in the command center, reviewing the latest reports. The fortress was fortified and ready, with the Veil of Shadows now fully operational, providing an additional layer of protection against potential attacks. The soldiers were in position, their eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of movement.

Cedric joined Elara at the command table, a concerned expression on his face. "We've received more intelligence from our scouts. The Shadow Shard's forces are massing in large numbers. They're preparing for a full-scale assault."

Elara nodded, her mind racing through their strategies. "Do we have any sense of their timing?"