Chapter 14: The Gathering Storm

As word of Kazuki and his companions' quest spread, the forces of darkness grew restless. They could sense the growing unity among the people of Veridia, and it threatened to dismantle their malevolent plans.

Within the fortress of Shadowmire, the stronghold of the Shadow Lord, a gathering took place—a council of darkness. The Shadow Lord, a figure shrouded in darkness and malice, presided over the assembly, his voice laced with venomous intent.

One by one, his loyal followers reported on the progress of Kazuki and his companions. The news of their successful alliances and the rekindling of Veridia's light ignited a fierce anger within the Shadow Lord.

He knew that the time for subtlety had passed. The forces of darkness needed to strike swiftly and decisively, eradicating the growing resistance before it could gather full strength.

A plan was devised—a massive assault on the city of Asteria, where Kazuki and his companions had forged the strongest alliance. The Shadow Lord's forces would unleash a tidal wave of darkness upon the city, crushing the flickering flames of hope and plunging Veridia into eternal despair.

Unbeknownst to the Shadow Lord, a spy within his ranks had defected—a disgruntled servant who had grown disillusioned with the never-ending cycle of darkness. This traitor, who went by the name of Aris, had witnessed the strength and determination of Kazuki and his companions firsthand.

Aris, driven by a newfound sense of purpose, made his way to the city of Asteria, determined to warn Kazuki and his allies of the impending attack. He knew that time was of the essence, that the storm of darkness was gathering on the horizon.