The fire crackled low as the warriors gathered around Seraphine's figure, the night pressing in close like a warning.
Rael's voice was sharp, slicing the quiet. "Tell us everything. Where is the demon's next strike?"
Seraphine's eyes flickered with pain. "The demon is hunting the sources of true light—any remnants of the old gods. His next target is a village hidden beneath the Blackthorn Forest. It holds an ancient relic, a fragment of the real God's power."
Elyndra's gaze narrowed. "The Blackthorn Forest… that's miles from here. Why would he risk sending his forces so far?"
"Because," Seraphine said, voice low, "he wants to prevent you from growing stronger. That relic can help restore your powers — and free more of your kind from the seals."
The warriors exchanged looks.
Kairon grinned. "Well, we can't just let that happen."
"Agreed." Rael stood, eyes blazing. "We move at dawn. We protect the relic. We fight back."
Porco quilled up excitedly. "Finally! Some action! And I get to poke some demons!"
Daemon, silent as ever, simply nodded.
Elyndra felt a surge of determination. The time to hide was over.
She stood tall. "Then it's settled. Tomorrow, we march for Blackthorn."
As the night deepened, a new resolve settled over the camp — but beneath the stars, something darker watched and waited.
The demon's mark had already been set in motion.
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