The sun had barely risen when Ashen stood atop the ridge, the Emberfang sheathed at his side, its hilt pulsating with a faint, fiery glow. The events at the Ruins of Eldara had left the group shaken, but resolute. The revelation of betrayal within their own ranks had ignited a fire within Ashen—a determination to root out the darkness, no matter where it hid.
Lyra approached, her armor freshly polished, reflecting the morning light. "The scouts have returned," she reported."They've spotted movement near the Cursed Hollow. Could be Kael's forces."
Ashen nodded, his jaw set. "Then that's where we're headed."
The journey to the Cursed Hollow was fraught with tension. The once-vibrant forest now stood as a twisted mockery of its former self—trees with blackened bark, leaves that whispered secrets, and shadows that seemed to move of their own accord.
As they ventured deeper, the air grew thick with malevolence. Selene, ever attuned to the arcane, murmured, "This place is steeped in dark magic. We must be cautious."
Suddenly, a shriek pierced the air. From the shadows emerged creatures twisted by corruption—once-human forms now reduced to snarling beasts.
"Defensive positions!" Ashen commanded, drawing the Emberfang. The blade ignited, casting a warm glow that pushed back the encroaching darkness.
The battle was fierce. Thorne's arrows found their marks, Selene's spells illuminated the gloom, and Lyra's sword sang as it met its targets. Ashen moved with purpose, the Emberfang cutting through the corrupted with righteous fury.Design emails people love to get.
As the last creature fell, a hush settled over the Hollow. From the darkness, a slow clap echoed. Kael stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with malice.
"Impressive," he sneered. "But futile. You cannot stop what's coming."
Ashen stepped forward, the Emberfang at the ready. "We'll see about that."
Kael laughed, a sound devoid of humor. "You're armed, yes. But are you truly dangerous?
With that, he vanished into the shadows, leaving behind a chilling promise of the battles yet to come.