Bab 1349: Chapter 1349: The Perfect Storm

As Kael descended the mountainside from the fortress, the morning light bathed him in a cold glow, as if to remind him of the trials still ahead. The defeat of Seraphine was a small victory, but one that had come at a price. The encounter with the Shadow Weavers had drained him, but his resolve was firmer than ever. The void was not gone, only quieted—its remnants lay scattered, like embers waiting to spark into flame. He needed to return to Valtoria quickly and prepare for the battles that loomed.

Three days later, Kael arrived at the city gates, greeted by familiar faces who bowed respectfully as he passed. News of his victory had spread quickly, and the people of Valtoria wore a cautious optimism, though he sensed an underlying tension. Despite the recent calm, everyone knew this peace was tenuous. The shadow of the void's influence still hung over them, and rumors of strange happenings on the outskirts of the kingdom had begun to stir unrest among the townsfolk.