Chapter 180 The Calm Before The Storm

• The village of resistance was alive with activity, but there was an undercurrent of tension that none could ignore. Every day, new faces arrived, warriors and strategists from distant lands who had heard of their cause. The promise of a united front against Maldrith's forces had sparked a rallying cry among the oppressed, and now, the growing army in the mountains was a beacon of hope for the people of Elandor. Yet, despite the fervor of their preparations, Ariella felt a constant unease tugging at her.
• As night fell, the fires around the camp flickered against the backdrop of towering peaks. Ariella stood outside the war tent, her eyes fixed on the horizon. The stillness of the night was almost oppressive, as if the world itself was waiting for the inevitable clash. The stars above seemed to mock her, so far away from the earth-bound struggles that would soon unfold.
• "Thinking about the battle?" Kael’s voice broke through her thoughts, and she turned to find him approaching. His face was drawn, eyes shadowed from the weight of the responsibility he carried.