The figure stepped fully into the light, revealing himself as Lord Marius – formerly Valerius's lieutenant in Eldoria. His face was now devoid of its former subservience, replaced with an expression of cold ambition and unsettling calm.
"You were a loyal servant to Valerius," Rhyland said, his voice laced with disbelief. "Why?"
Marius chuckled, a dry, humorless sound. "Valerius was merely a pawn – a useful tool in my larger scheme." He gestured towards the Obsidian Spire looming in the distance. "The time has come for Aethelgard to fulfill its true purpose."
He explained that he was a descendant of the Shadow Weavers—a secret society banished from Eldoria centuries ago for practicing forbidden magic. They believed that the Sylvani had stumbled upon a dangerous truth – a way to manipulate reality itself—and that this knowledge needed to be reclaimed and perfected.
"The cataclysm that destroyed Aethelgard was not an accident," Marius revealed, his voice dripping with disdain. "It was orchestrated by my ancestors—a necessary step in purging the island of those who sought to misuse its power." He claimed that he had spent years studying ancient texts, uncovering the secrets of the Shadow Weavers and preparing for their return.
"Your ancestors believed they were purifying Aethelgard," Elara challenged him. "But all they achieved was destruction."
Marius smiled coldly. "Destruction is often a prerequisite for creation. The Sylvani's attempts at reshaping reality were crude, flawed. I intend to refine their methods—to unlock the true potential of the Mist and reshape Eldoria in my image." He explained that the spire acted as a conduit – a focal point for harnessing the island's residual energy and amplifying the Shadow Weavers' power.
He revealed his ultimate plan: to use the spire to drain Aethelgard's ancient magic, channeling it into Eldoria—effectively bending reality to his will and establishing himself as its undisputed ruler.
"Valerius sought control," Rhyland said, understanding dawning in his eyes. "You manipulated him - used him as a distraction while you prepared your own ascent."
Marius nodded, acknowledging the truth of Rhyland's words. "Valerius was predictable—a blunt instrument easily controlled." He fixed Elara with a piercing gaze. "But you…you possess an unexpected strength – a connection to the Mist that rivals even my own ancestors. You are an obstacle—and I intend to eliminate you."
He raised his hand, and shadowy tendrils of mist erupted from the ground, swirling around him like protective guardians. "My Shadow Weavers will ensure your silence."