Ascension of the Mortal God

Chapter 24: Preparing for War

The sun hung low over Raventhorn Keep as Kael surveyed the fortress. The scars of time and neglect were evident, but beneath the decay lay the bones of a stronghold that could endure the storm to come. He had taken it with steel and fire—now, he had to fortify it with blood and will.

Darius strode up, wiping sweat from his brow. "The outer walls are in worse shape than I thought. We've patched the weakest sections, but they won't hold against a real siege."

Kael nodded. "Then we make it so they won't have the chance. What about weapons?"

Selene approached, her sharp gaze scanning a hastily assembled inventory list. "A mix of stolen gear from the gods' convoys and what the bandits had—mostly crude steel and rusted iron. There are a few enchanted weapons, but not nearly enough to arm an army."

Varian emerged from the shadows, his expression grim. "Scouts returned. We've got movement. A small warband, maybe a scouting force from the gods. A dozen, no more. But if they don't report back, more will come."

Kael clenched his fist. "Then we strike first. We can't afford to let them bring word of what we've done."

Darius grinned, hefting his axe. "Now you're talking."

Kael turned to the gathered warriors. They were a mix of former bandits, rebels, and outcasts—hardened, desperate, and hungry for purpose. "We move at night. We take them before they even know we're here."

The warriors nodded, their eyes glinting with the fire of impending battle.

The war against the gods had begun.

To be continued…