Villain of Dominion

Back in the citadel, Kael entered the grand hall, where the Sorcerer's Council awaited him. The council members, powerful mages in their own right, each served Kael's will, though their loyalty was often born of fear rather than devotion.The council was composed of six members, each representing a different aspect of the dark arts. At the head of the table sat Malakar, the Master of Necromancy, whose gaunt features and hollow eyes betrayed his affinity for death. Beside him was Morwen, Mistress of Illusions, whose beauty was as dangerous as the deceptions she wove.Kael took his seat at the head of the table, his gaze sweeping over the assembled sorcerers. "We have a new threat to our rule," he announced. "Aeron Blackthorn has returned, and he's gathering forces to challenge us."Malakar sneered, his voice a rasp. "Let him try. I will raise an army of the dead to crush his pitiful rebellion."Morwen, however, was less confident. "Aeron is not to be underestimated," she cautioned. "He knows Kael better than any of us. He may have found a way to counter our magic."Kael's eyes flickered with irritation. "Aeron is a fool if he thinks he can challenge me. But I will not take any chances. We will strengthen our defenses and prepare for war. I want spies in every corner of the empire, watching for any sign of his movements."As the council discussed their plans, Seraphine watched Kael closely. She could see the strain in his eyes, the way his hand clenched around the armrest of his chair. The darkness within him was growing stronger, and she wondered how long he could continue down this path before it consumed him entirely.That night, as Kael retired to his chambers, he was haunted by visions of the malevolent force he had unleashed. It whispered to him, promising him power beyond his wildest dreams, but at a cost he was not yet willing to pay. He knew he was walking a fine line between control and madness, and Aeron's return only served to push him closer to the edge.But Kael was not ready to give up his dominion. Not yet. He would face Aeron and destroy him, once and for all. And then, perhaps, he would finally be at peace.