🔥 Chapter 19 — Confronting the Outpost
The stone plateau loomed before them, etched with ancient runes that pulsed faintly with corrupted energy. Kael's Ember flared as he stepped closer, sensing the residual power of the King's forces stationed here.
Rhyne scanned the perimeter, sigil blade ready. "This isn't just a waypoint. There's a garrison—guards, magical traps, and probably some elite fighters. We need to be careful."
Kael nodded, flames spiraling into defensive whips and barriers. "Agreed. But we can't wait. The Ember senses movement… they're expecting reinforcements soon. We need to strike fast and precise."
From the shadows, figures emerged—cloaked soldiers moving with coordination, each exuding subtle magical energy. They advanced cautiously, aware of the Ember's presence. Kael smiled faintly. "Perfect. They'll reveal their strategies the moment they attack."
The first wave lunged, green energy whips cutting through the air. Kael's flames twisted and danced, intercepting strikes while sending arcs of Emberfire spiraling toward the attackers. Sparks flew, trees and stone splintered, and the forest surrounding the plateau trembled.
Rhyne moved in tandem, striking at openings Kael created, taking out the soldiers with precision. "They're well-trained," he muttered. "But coordinated attacks can only go so far against the Ember."
Kael's eyes glowed, flames coiling around him like living tendrils. He extended the Ember in multiple spirals, forcing the soldiers into retreat, pushing them toward the center of the plateau where traps Kael had sensed earlier could be triggered.
A massive explosion of energy erupted as the soldiers collided with hidden wards, scattering them across the battlefield. Kael advanced, Ember spiraling fiercely, cutting off any path of escape.
Rhyne landed beside him, panting. "We've cleared the outpost… but the energy here is different. This isn't just a garrison—it's a staging ground for something larger."
Kael's gaze hardened, Ember flames pulsing with intensity. "Exactly. The King is building his forces strategically, and this plateau is a keystone. If we want to understand his next move, we uncover the secrets here—and fast."
Above, faint green pulses flickered in the sky, hinting at reinforcements yet to arrive. The battle for intelligence—and survival—was just beginning.