The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the sprawling castle grounds. Ryker strode purposefully across the courtyard, his boots crunching against the gravel. Aria fell into step beside him, her hand resting lightly on his arm.

"Are you certain about this, my love?" she asked, her brow furrowed with concern. "Forging alliances is no small matter."

Ryker's gaze was steely, his jaw set in determination. "The ancient evil grows stronger by the day. We cannot face it alone." He paused, turning to face her. "United, we stand a chance. Divided, we fall."

Aria nodded, her fingers tightening around his arm. "Then let us do what...