The sanctuary prepared for battle as the coalition's forces loomed closer. Jihoon stood atop the central tower, his eyes scanning the horizon. Beside him, Ryujin sharpened his blade, calm despite the tension in the air.
"Do you think we're ready?" Jihoon asked, his tone uncertain.
Ryujin smirked. "Readiness doesn't win battles. Resolve does."
Jihoon nodded, knowing resolve was something his disciples had in abundance. Inside the Nexus chamber, Arin and Daehyun worked tirelessly on a protective barrier spell, designed to shield the sanctuary from the initial wave of attacks. Sora trained the newer disciples in basic defensive techniques, ensuring even the unskilled had a role to play.
As night fell, Jihoon called everyone together. The Nexus's light cast an ethereal glow over the crowd. "This battle is not just for survival," Jihoon declared. "It's for the future of Murim—a future where magic and martial arts can coexist."
The disciples cheered, their fears momentarily replaced by determination. But as the cheers faded, Jihoon's mind lingered on the spy's warning: They will burn this sanctuary to the ground.