The next morning dawned with a chill that seemed to seep into the very bones of the stronghold. Elara awoke to the faint sound of wind rustling through the trees and the distant clamor of preparations underway. She dressed quickly, her mind still heavy with the weight of their impending confrontation.
As she made her way through the stronghold, she found the courtyard bustling with activity. Soldiers were sharpening weapons, workers were reinforcing the walls, and magical wards were being renewed. Despite the palpable sense of urgency, there was a shared determination in the air. Everyone knew what was at stake.
Elara met with Seraphina and Morgana in the strategy room, where they were joined by Lord Darius and several senior commanders. Maps of the northern territories were spread out on the table, marked with updates from Kirin's scouts and new insights from Morgana's research.