The demons redoubled their efforts. One group broke through the defense and drew dangerously close to the main gates. Caden found himself overwhelmed by two opponents at once. He chained fiery punches and rapid dodges, but one of them landed a brutal blow to his leg. He dropped to his knees.
"Caden!" Bella screamed.
She sent a violent gust of wind to clear the enemies, while Zetch urgently raised an earthen rampart. Aletha summoned a sphere of water around them to buy a few precious seconds of respite.
"We can't hold on much longer like this!" Zetch shouted, sweat pouring down his forehead.
The monks were retreating. Even Eiran, Lyseria, Kael, and Lethan were starting to show signs of exhaustion despite their bravery. It seemed the shadows were about to prevail.
Then, a **colossal shockwave** tore through the night.
The ground shook. A wave of golden energy swept across the entire esplanade, violently hurling demons and dark mages back several meters. Screams of agony rose as several creatures disintegrated under the sheer power of the impact.
All eyes turned toward the monastery entrance.
The Sage stood there, tall and imposing. His immaculate white robe, embroidered with intricate golden threads, covered his entire body and face. Only his piercing emerald-green eyes were visible. He held no weapon, yet his mere presence made the air itself vibrate with power.