The evening sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the quiet village. Soldiers crouch low in their hiding spots, gripping weapons with white-knuckled hands. Their faces are tense, their breathing shallow. The weight of the coming battle presses down like a storm cloud.
Azure, however, stands at the edge of the battlements, arms crossed and a faint smile on his lips. The faint breeze ruffles his cloak, and he takes a deep breath, almost as if savoring the anticipation. He mutters to himself, "Finally, a real fight. Eight elite warriors. This might actually make me work for it."
Lysara sighs, shaking her head. "You're impossible. But fine. They should be coming any moment now. I'll signal the soldiers hiding near the traps to be ready."
