"We have suffered great losses," Elara began, her voice ringing out with steely determination. "Our enemies have unleashed an ancient evil upon us, one that threatens to tear our world asunder."

Murmurs rippled through the crowd, their eyes wide with trepidation. Seraphina stepped forward, her jaw set. "What are your orders, Luna?"

Elara straightened her shoulders, drawing strength from Damien's unwavering presence. "We strike first. This darkness cannot be allowed to spread."

"And how do you propose we fight something we don't understand?" A gruff voice called out from the back.

Damien's lip curled. "With every weapon in our arsenal. Elara and I witnessed the forbidden ritual firsthand. We know...