On the day of the campaign, Velmora awakened before the crimson light had fully spread across the sky.
Black Horn's bells rang from different parts of the city, their deep notes rolling across rooftops, military districts, and crowded streets. Transport beasts dragged wagons filled with supplies toward the outer campaign grounds. Soldiers moved in organised lines, rune masters carried sealed equipment beneath armed escort, and ordinary demons gathered along restricted roads hoping to glimpse the forces preparing to invade earth.
Excitement and tension mixed in the air.
Some demons spoke about Earth as though treasures waited openly on every road. Others discussed the humans who had killed their relatives during earlier rift wars. Merchants were already arguing over contracts for resources that had not yet been captured.
Inside Black Horn's main campaign assembly ground, the selected recruits stood in ordered rows.
Simon stood between Sonya and Akaza.
