Chapter 09: MOONWHISPER ELVES ENVOY

Dorian and Lyra decided to lead the envoy themselves, hoping Lyra's magical reputation would ease negotiations.

As they entered Moonwhisper Elf territory – an ethereal forest filled with glowing trees and soft music – 

They were greeted by Elf Queen Lirien Moonwhisper.

Lyra bowed respectfully:

"Greetings, Your Majesty. We come seeking alliance against Korvus's darkness."

Queen Lirien's piercing green eyes narrowed:

"Korvus's evil has reached our lands, corrupting some of my kin. What proof offers your alliance will prevail?"

Dorian stepped forward:

"I wield ancient Eldrid magic, powerful enough to counter Korvus's shadows. Together, our forces could defeat him."

Queen Lirien gestured to her archers:

"My warriors sense magic. Let them verify your claim, Dorian Eldrid."

Dorian nodded, focusing his energy...

A blast of soft blue light erupted from his hands, illuminating the forest.

The Elf archers nodded in unison, confirming his magic.

Queen Lirien smiled:

"Moonwhisper Elves join your alliance. Our archers will rain arrows upon Korvus's darkness."

Dorian exhaled relief as Lyra added:

"One more ally remains: Thane Blackwood, former Korvus loyalist turned rogue..."

Should they trust him?

Queen Lirien's expression turned cautious:

"Thane Blackwood walks a treacherous path. His betrayal of Korvus might be mere strategy."

Dorian nodded thoughtfully:

"I share your concern, Your Majesty. Lyra, what do you know of Thane Blackwood's motives?"

Lyra's eyes narrowed:

"He was once Korvus's most trusted advisor, but his sister was slaughtered by Korvus's men. Revenge drives him now."

Dorian considered this:

"Revenge can be a powerful ally. If Thane Blackwood shares our goal – Korvus's downfall – his knowledge of Korvus's stronghold could be invaluable."

Queen Lirien agreed:

"Send a discreet envoy to meet Thane Blackwood. If his intentions seem pure, bring him into our fold."

Lyra volunteered:

"I'll go. My past interactions with Thane Blackwood might help gauge his loyalty."

Dorian nodded, a plan forming:

While Lyra meets Thane Blackwood, I'll lead our combined forces – Wyvern Clan warriors and Moonwhisper Elf archers – to surround Korvus's stronghold.

Lyra nodded, understanding the strategy:

"If I deem Thane Blackwood loyal, he'll open a secret passage into the stronghold. Your forces will attack simultaneously from inside and out."

Queen Lirien added:

"My scouts report Korvus hosts a dark ritual tonight – likely to break the ancient seal. We must act swiftly."

Dorian's determination intensified:

"Tonight, then. Lyra, meet Thane Blackwood and confirm his allegiance. Our battle against Korvus begins at midnight."

The Black System silently updated his mission timeline:

**MISSION CLOCK INITIATED**

 + Time until midnight battle: 9 hours 12 minutes

 + Allies confirmed: Wyvern Clan, Moonwhisper Elves

+ Thane Blackwood's allegiance pending confirmation

Lyra departed for her secret meeting with Thane Blackwood, leaving Dorian to coordinate with Queen Lirien and Kaelin Darkhunter.

The three leaders pored over a makeshift map of Korvus's stronghold, planning their assault:

"Kaelin, your warriors will breach the eastern gate," Dorian said.

Queen Lirien nodded:

"My archers will provide cover fire from the nearby rooftops."

Dorian traced the stronghold's inner layout:

"I'll lead a team through the main hall, targeting Korvus directly. If Lyra confirms Thane Blackwood's loyalty, he'll open the secret passage for our secondary strike team."

Kaelin Darkhunter drew her sword, its blade glinting in the fading light:

"By midnight, Korvus will face the combined fury of our clans."

Suddenly, a hooded figure emerged from shadows – Lyra returned, her expression guarded:

"Thane Blackwood will join us... but with a warning: Korvus has summoned a terrifying entity to ensure his ritual's success."