War of the Three Crowns
Riftstorms rage for days after sealing the Skyward Monastery, leaving Aren's party exhausted. But the true threat stands quietly on a nearby cliff, watching them with emotionless golden eyes. A third heir—unknown to both Aren and Arcelia.
The Sovereign System trembles before announcing:
[Rival Heir Identified: Kael Draven]
[Title: Bearer of the Abyssal Fragment • Crown of Ruin]
[Warning: Catastrophic threat level]
Kael vanishes into a void ripple, but the message is clear: the three heirs are now drawn together by fate—and conflict.
As Aren's group travels toward Solmira Citadel, an ancient fortress said to store records of multiversal wars, tensions heighten. Arcelia refuses to acknowledge Aren's compassion as strength; Seraphine refuses to tolerate Arcelia's ruthlessness; Mira sees opportunity in every clash; and Lyra quietly senses corruption spreading through the fragments.
At Solmira, they uncover the truth: the Shattered Crown is not merely a relic—it is a seal. Each fragment prevents the awakening of an ancient cosmic entity known as the Eternal Sovereign, a being whose rule once spanned millions of realms.
And Kael intends to break that seal.
Before they can digest this revelation, Kael strikes. His Abyssal Fragment corrupts an entire battalion of guardians, twisting them into shadows. Aren activates a new System feature:
[Sovereign Sanctuary: Protect All Who Swear Loyalty]
A radiant barrier forms around his companions, their Resonance surging with his determination.
Kael smiles, darkness swirling behind him.
"Two heirs cannot stop destiny. The throne belongs to destruction."
The first true battle of the Three Crowns begins.