A New Shadow

The air in the war room was thick with tension. Maps lay sprawled across the heavy oak table, candles burning low as Kaelith studied the latest reports. The enemy was moving, but this time, it was not Kieran.

Veylan.

The name was whispered in hushed tones, a ghost of a figure whose influence stretched further than anticipated. Seraphine, standing at Kaelith's side, felt the weight of the revelation settle in her chest. A new enemy, one who had lurked beneath their notice, now stepped into the light.

"We should have seen this coming," Kaelith muttered, rubbing his temple. "He's been weaving his web for years."

Seraphine's fingers curled against the edge of the table. "Then we cut through the strands before they tighten."

A knock on the door interrupted them. One of Kaelith's trusted men entered, his expression grim. "Your Highness, we have word—Veylan has already moved against us."

Kaelith's jaw tightened. "Where?"

"The eastern outpost. It was set ablaze last night. Survivors claim they saw his sigil marked in the ruins."

Seraphine exchanged a glance with Kaelith. The game had changed. And now, they were forced to play by Veylan's rules.

"Then we move first," Kaelith declared. "Before he expects us."

Seraphine's heart pounded. The battle had begun again, but this time, the enemy was an enigma wrapped in shadows. And she feared what they would uncover in the pursuit of truth.