Dawn broke over the blackened plains of Tyrgath as Kael's army gathered to march south. Each soldier carried the fifth chain, its molten gold links still warm in their hands. No words were spoken. Their eyes reflected the hunger for what lay ahead.
Mira approached Kael on the cliff overlooking Virellen's harbor. Below, white marble walls rose high above the sea. Golden-sailed ships lay at anchor, their crews ready to defend the city. Torches lined the ramparts, and magic wards flickered along the battlements.
"They believe the ocean shields them," Kael said.
"They fear the Black Flame," Mira replied.
Kael closed his eyes and reached into the power of the fifth chain. A ripple of black fire raced down the cliff face. Torches erupted in ashen flames that curled skyward. Alarm horns echoed through the city.
Kael drew Ashveil. Its runes glowed dark red. He called out to his priests below. Lanterns carrying soulfire appeared along the docks. In moments, the harbor transformed into a furnace. Ships burned. Walls cracked. Defenders fled in terror or fell to the invaders.
Within the hour, the gates lay broken. Kael strode into the plaza. He raised Ashveil high above his head. Shadows danced on the shattered statues of Virellen's past rulers.
"I am Sovereign of Ash and Ocean," he declared. "Virellen kneels. Let the queen hear this: no crown is safe from the Black Flame."
An officer knelt before him, trembling. She presented a scroll sealed with black wax.
"Surrender or watch your city burn to its foundations," Kael commanded her. "Carry these words to Queen Elira. The next chain will be claimed from her treasury."
The officer saluted and fled. Kael watched her go, the wind carrying his voice to the distant walls.
He turned back to Mira.
"Two chains remain," he said. "The final gate awaits at the peak of Eldhollow."
Mira nodded. "And soon the world will follow your flame."
Kael sheathed Ashveil and gazed out over the ocean. The horizon was blood-red with fire and salt spray. The Shattered Crown lay at his feet, and his name echoed across land and sea.