After the trial in darkness, Arin and his group returned to the real world. The scattered mist and cracked earth still reminded them of the battle that had just ended.
Kai frowned, uneasy.
"We survived… but what awaits us now?"
Lyra's gaze stretched toward the horizon. From atop the mountains, an enormous fortress loomed—constructed of cold steel and black stone. Flags bearing the emblem of a sword engulfed in flames danced in the wind.
The runaway prince murmured,
"This… is the Iron Empire. One of the oldest and most merciless empires in the world. Even before the Shadow Wardens attacked, they sought to expand their power."
Arin took a deep breath.
"So the enemies aren't just shadows… this world is filled with forces yet to reveal themselves."
As the group approached the fortress, the Iron Empire's guards spotted them. Arrows and bursts of flame erupted from the walls.
Unlike the Shadow Wardens, these forces were disciplined and tactical; their movements precise and calculated.
Arin consulted with his friends:
"This empire is against us… but if we understand their tactics, maybe we have a chance to push them back."
The Silent Sorceress whispered softly:
"Every empire has a weakness. We must discover what they depend on."
This was their first encounter with a human and tactical enemy, one whose shadow would loom over them throughout their journey.