Chapter 109

• The alliance stronghold loomed in the distance, its walls sturdy and reinforced after months of preparation. Inside, the air was thick with anticipation. Scouts had reported movements in The Harbinger’s army—massive waves of rogue werewolves, corrupted supernatural creatures, and constructs of dark energy. The offensive they had all feared was finally upon them.
• Amara stood at the battlements, her eyes scanning the horizon. Beside her, Asher adjusted his weapons, his usual humor absent. The news of Xander’s continued recovery weighed heavily on both of them. With him unable to fight, the burden of leading the defense fell squarely on Amara and Asher’s shoulders.
• “They’re testing us,” Asher said, breaking the tense silence. “Hitting us where it hurts. The stronghold is a symbol, and if they take it, the alliance might not recover.”