The journey back to the castle was uneventful, but the weight of what lay ahead pressed heavily on Juliana's mind. The alliance with the Shadow Clans was a significant victory, yet it was only the beginning. With Lena's warning about the demons' imminent assault echoing in her thoughts, she knew there was no time to waste.
Hak rode beside her, his presence steady and reassuring. Behind them, the Shadow Clans' warriors moved silently, their black armor blending into the shadows of the dense forest.
"We'll need a strategy meeting as soon as we arrive," Juliana said, breaking the silence.
Hak nodded. "I've already sent word ahead. The council, the commanders, and our allies will be ready."
The castle came into view just as the sun began to set, its golden light casting long shadows across
