The first light of dawn painted Blackspire Fortress in muted gold, a deceptive calm that contrasted sharply with the tension simmering beneath its walls. Soldiers moved with precision, performing drills, reinforcing barricades, and patrolling the perimeter. The betrayal of Markus had left a bitter aftertaste—one that Ren refused to ignore. Trust could not be assumed; loyalty had to be proven.
Ren stood atop the main battlements, Frostbane at his side, the System pulsing faintly in his mind. Every sensor, every predictive algorithm, every tactical overlay was active.
[System Notification: Troop Status – 92% Combat-Ready] [Internal Threat Check – Cleared Post-Betrayal] [Enemy Forces – Varik’s Recon Detected, Estimated Engagement in 24–36 Hours]
Ren’s jaw tightened. “The next battle will n
