The roar echoed beneath Blackthorn Castle.

The ground shook so violently that cracks spread across the courtyard, swallowing abandoned weapons and broken stone.

The surviving soldiers backed away in fear.

"What was that?" one knight whispered.

Oracle Selene's face turned as pale as snow.

"The Shadow Sovereign."

"It has sensed that its prison is weakening."

Lucien turned to Sir Elias.

"Take half the knights and secure the castle."

"What about you?"

"I'm going below."

Sir Elias frowned.

"It's too dangerous."

Lucien's silver eyes hardened.

"If we don't stop the ritual now..."

"There won't be a kingdom left to protect."

Sir Elias bowed.

"Then may the gods watch over you."

---...