CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: The Starborn War Begins

Elianah

The skies above Aeravell darkened, not with clouds, but with countless stars awakening — brighter, sharper, as if the cosmos itself was holding its breath.

The city pulsed beneath them, alive with ancient magic renewed.

But the peace was fragile.

From the horizon, an army emerged — not made of flesh, but shadows born of forgotten gods and broken souls.

The Watchers.

Lyra's voice was steady but grim.

> "They have come for the Soulbound. For the bond you share.

The war we tried to end has found us again."

Kael stood beside Elianah, sword in hand, eyes burning with determination.

> "Then we fight — not just for ourselves, but for every life tied to this flame."

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The Gathering

Across Aeravell's spires, others stirred.

Souls bound by fate, waiting for the call.

Thorne led the vanguard, his blade carving paths through shadows.

Elianah felt the city hum beneath her feet, connecting them all — a web of light and purpose.

> "The Nine will rise," she whispered, "and the stars will remember."

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The First Clash

The Watchers descended like a storm, their weapons forged from despair and dark fire.

The battle ignited — steel against shadow, flame against void.

Elianah moved through the fray, her own flames burning brighter with every heartbeat.

Kael fought beside her, twin swords weaving a dance of light and death.

Lyra's runes glowed, sealing cracks in the realm, keeping darkness at bay.

But the enemy was relentless.

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A Whisper in the Dark

Amidst the chaos, a shadow approached Elianah — not an enemy, but a messenger.

A figure cloaked in silver, eyes like shattered glass.

He spoke only one word:

> "Remember."

And then he vanished — leaving behind a single token: a shard of starfire, cold yet burning.

Elianah clenched it tightly.

She knew the war was far from over.

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