The force that met the High Lord's power did not waver. It held - firm and unyielding.
And then, it pushed back.
The corridor trembled as the two opposing energies clashed, distorting the very air between them. Warriors stumbled, forced to brace themselves against the pressure, their instincts screaming at them to either retreat… or submit.
But none of them moved. Because at the center of it all stood the High Lord. And opposite him stood the cloaked man.
For a long, suspended moment, neither side spoke. Then the High Lord's low and controlled voice cut through the tension, heavy with recognition.
"…Carter Thown."
The name landed like a blow, and a ripple of shock and disbelief spread through the entire formation.
Every warrior present went still, their eyes locking onto the man standing at the far end of the corridor.
