Far from the valley, Marlic's storm coiled in exile. He plotted, patient, waiting for dusk to return. But shadows are never unchallenged.
From the mountains came another force—the Ironbound, warriors scarred by Marlic's betrayal long ago. Their leader, a man with a voice like steel and a blade forged from broken chains, marched at their head.
His words rang through the caverns: "Marlic stole our grief, twisted it into his storm. We will not bow to shadow. Tonight, we strike."
Marlic's ember eyes flared as the Ironbound descended. His champions staggered under the sudden assault, smoke torn apart by steel.
Marlic roared, furious. "You dare? You think grief belongs to you? I am betrayal itself!"
But the Ironbound pressed harder, their leader's blade gleaming with vengeance. The clash shook the caverns, forcing Marlic to turn his fury against them.