Ascension of the Mortal God

Chapter 26: Embers of Rebellion

The halls of Raventhorn Keep echoed with the sound of steel and determination. The once-abandoned fortress had become a hive of activity as Kael's forces worked tirelessly to transform it into a bastion of rebellion. The victory over the bandits had been the first step, but securing their foothold against the wrath of the gods required more than just walls and weapons.

Kael stood on the keep's highest tower, gazing out over the mountains. The air was crisp, the morning sun barely cutting through the lingering mist. Below, Darius oversaw combat drills, his booming voice carrying across the courtyard as recruits sparred with dull blades. Varian moved among them like a phantom, offering quiet corrections to those who faltered. Selene had vanished hours ago, scouting the nearby territories for potential allies—or threats.

"The foundation is strong, but the structure is fragile," Varian said, suddenly appearing beside Kael. "Most of the men are fighters, not soldiers. They know how to swing a blade, but not how to hold a line."

Kael sighed. "Then we train them. We don't need warriors—we need an army."

Varian nodded, his sharp eyes scanning the recruits. "And an army needs leadership. The men follow you, but they need more than a symbol. They need commanders."

Kael understood the weight of his words. He had proven himself in battle, but leading a rebellion was more than just winning fights. It was about inspiring loyalty, about making sure his people had something to fight for beyond vengeance.

A horn blast echoed from the gates, breaking his thoughts. Selene rode in atop a black stallion, her cloak billowing behind her. Her expression was grim, and that alone set Kael on edge.

"We have a problem," she said as she dismounted. "A scouting party from the gods' forces was spotted two miles from here. They were searching for something."

Kael's grip tightened around the hilt of his sword. "Did they see you?"

"No," Selene said. "But they were heading toward the nearest village. If they find out what happened here, the gods will send something worse."

Darius, who had joined them, cracked his knuckles. "Then we stop them before they can report back."

Kael nodded. There was no room for hesitation. The rebellion was fragile, its embers barely ignited. If the gods discovered their stronghold too soon, they would snuff them out before they had a chance to grow.

"We move now," Kael ordered. "Selene, take a small force and intercept them. We cannot afford to be found yet."

Selene smirked. "Consider it done."

As she rode off with her handpicked warriors, Kael turned to the keep once more. This was only the beginning. The gods would come for them, but he would be ready. The embers of rebellion had been lit. Now, it was time to fan the flames.

To be continued…