The sound of splintering wood reverberated through the air as the gates of the Phoenix settlement finally gave way, torn apart by the sheer force of Alex and his soldiers. With a triumphant roar, they surged forward, their weapons glinting ominously in the light.
The settlers, their faces etched with courage, formed a defensive line, ready to defend their home and the freedom of the girls they had sworn to protect.
Marcus and the rest of the Phoenixes stood shoulder to shoulder, their powers ready to be unleashed against the invaders.
Alex stepped forward, a smirk playing on his lips and his eyes gleaming with a mix of arrogance and hunger for power. He raised his hand, signalling his soldiers to halt, and addressed the defiant Phoenixes.
"Your resistance is futile," he declared, his voice filled with false authority. "Surrender the girls, and you may yet save yourselves. Well, some of you, at least."
