Volume 2 — Chapter 17: Battle at Shadow Pass
Dawn broke over the jagged cliffs of Shadow Pass, the wind carrying the scent of smoke and steel. Lyriana and Aryn stood atop the ridge, surveying the valley below where the council's army had gathered—a sea of shadow-robed mages, armored soldiers, and siege engines ready to crush any resistance.
"This is it," Selara whispered. "Their forces are overwhelming. Strategy and unity are our only advantage."
Aryn tightened his grip on Lyriana's hand. "Then we lead together. Every move, every strike, coordinated. The Moonstone's power flows through us, but we must act as one."
Kaelen unsheathed his sword, eyes burning with anticipation. "Time to show the council what rebellion looks like."
As the council's forces advanced, Lyriana raised her hand. The Moonstone flared, sending a radiant pulse through the valley. The earth trembled, and a wall of silver light surged forward, slowing the enemy's advance.
From the ridge, the rebels charged, moving in perfect harmony. Lyriana and Aryn fought side by side, their combined energy creating blasts of light and sigil fire that scattered enemy mages. Every strike was synchronized, every defense intertwined, demonstrating not only skill but their unbreakable bond.
But the council had anticipated their strategy. A wave of elite shadow mages emerged, surrounding the rebels on three sides. Lyriana felt the Moonstone strain, its energy flickering as if warning of the danger.
"Aryn!" she shouted. "We must combine our full power!"
He nodded, placing his hand over hers. Their hearts beat as one, and the Moonstone erupted in blinding light, a wave of energy so powerful it shattered the enemy lines and sent the council mages reeling.
Even so, the battle was far from over. Casualties mounted on both sides, and Marovain's lieutenant appeared, eyes glowing with dark fury. The final confrontation was approaching.
Breathing heavily, Lyriana turned to Aryn. "We've come this far… together. Nothing will stop us now."
Aryn smiled, brushing hair from her face. "Always together."
As the rebels rallied and the council regrouped, Shadow Pass became a crucible of war, courage, and forbidden love—testing whether Lyriana and Aryn could lead not only their army but their destiny itself.