Shadowlands

At the first light of dawn, the castle courtyard was filled with a tense silence, broken only by the hushed whispers of soldiers and the clinking of armor as preparations were finalized. Emily stood at the center, her gaze steady but her heart heavy with the weight of the mission ahead. Around her, the chosen team gathered—each one handpicked for their skill, loyalty, and resolve. Valen was by her side, his presence a solid reassurance in the face of the unknown.

As the last supplies were loaded onto the horses, Emily turned to face Seraphina. The sorceress's eyes were filled with both love and concern, and the unspoken understanding between them was palpable. They had faced countless dangers together, but this mission felt different—more perilous, more final.

"Promise me you'll be careful," Seraphina whispered, her hand gently clasping Emily's.