🔥 Chapter 28 — Hunting the Next Hub
The sun was low over the eastern plains, casting long shadows over jagged rocks and scattered forests. Kael and Rhyne moved cautiously, following the faint residual pulse of corrupted energy that marked the King's next hub.
Rhyne scanned the terrain, hand on his sigil blade. "The traces are weaker here… the King is masking them. Whoever maintains these hubs is skilled in hiding their flow."
Kael extended the Ember, threads of fire curling forward like living probes. "It's subtle, but the Ember can sense the distortions. Follow its guidance, and we'll find the source before it grows strong again."
They advanced through forests and crumbling ruins, every step measured. Faint magical wards flickered under the Ember's detection, revealing traps designed to alert the King's forces. Kael disabled them silently, keeping their approach undetected.
Rhyne whispered, impressed. "This is more intricate than I expected. Each hub is like a spider's web—complex, layered, and dangerous."
Kael's eyes narrowed. "Exactly. The King's network isn't just about brute strength. Each hub supports multiple generals, channels energy across territories, and protects strategic locations. We destabilize one, and we disrupt a whole region—but only if we understand it first."
After hours of tracking, they reached a ridge overlooking a valley. Below, partially hidden by a forest, lay the next hub—a cluster of stone towers etched with faintly glowing runes. Small flares of green energy pulsed intermittently, indicating active wards and magical guards.
Kael's flames spiraled in thought. "This one is smaller than the eastern hub, but heavily concealed. They've learned from previous losses. Any attempt at a direct strike will trigger alarms instantly."
Rhyne's jaw tightened. "Then we approach differently. Stealth first, reconnaissance second. We need to map the defenses before we act."
Kael nodded, Ember pulsing in approval. "Agreed. We move at night. Shadows will be our allies, and the Ember will guide us past their wards. One misstep could mean disaster, but with precision, we can neutralize this hub and weaken the King's network further."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Kael and Rhyne began their careful descent toward the concealed hub, every movement deliberate. The hunt for the King's next strategic node had begun—and the real test of their skill and patience was about to unfold.