The war on the ground was only the beginning. Beyond the stars, a godlike enemy awaited — and Minwoo would not face it alone.
The path back to the Forge felt heavier than the miles beneath their feet.
The shattered valley faded behind them, replaced by the familiar silhouette of their guild's stronghold. The Forge stood firm—its walls scarred but resolute, a symbol of all they had fought for.
Minwoo's hand rested on the hilt of the Nexusblade, its dark edge pulsing softly as if alive.
Beside him, Kinro, the royal mini dragon, flexed his fiery wings, smoke curling from his nostrils.
Inside the war room, the guild gathered.
Selene's eyes glistened as she tended the wounded. Kael's fingers gripped his spear tighter than usual. Jinn and Lira flanked Minwoo, their faces etched with worry and resolve.
"The Sovereign was just the first step," Minwoo said. "Our true enemy is the Ruler — a godlike being whose reach extends beyond this world."
Lira's fingers traced glowing constellations in the air. "The threads of fate pull us into the stars. The Ruler watches, waits."
"I must leave," Minwoo declared, feeling Kinro's warm presence at his side. "To face this threat beyond the stars."
Shock rippled through the room.
Kael's voice cracked, "Now? Leaving us behind?"
Kinro growled softly, wings flexing. His ember eyes locked with Kael's, fierce and unyielding.
Selene's voice was trembling. "Promise you'll come back. We can't lose you."
Minwoo met their eyes, the weight of leadership settling like armor.
"The Nexusblade will go with me," he said firmly. "It is more than a weapon. It's our hope."
Kinro let out a low roar, flames flickering from his throat.
"And I go with him."