CHAPTER 36: SHADOWS AND LIGHT

Scene 1: The Challenge

In the pre-dawn hours, Mira stood before the gathered warriors in the great hall of their mountain stronghold. The relic cast a soft glow across concerned faces as she outlined their bold plan.

"The Order expects shadows and secrecy," she declared, her voice steady despite her racing heart. "We'll give them something else entirely. A direct challenge they cannot ignore."

Lysandra moved forward, her restored armor gleaming in the crystal light. "We've identified their main temple in the capital city of Silvermark. It masquerades as a merchant guild hall, but our scouts confirm it's their primary base of operations."

Master Thane unrolled a detailed map across the central table. "The building sits at the heart of the merchant district. They chose it carefully - any attack there would normally draw immediate response from the city guard."