"Formation complete," one of the lead captains shouts. "Activating fortress stance!"
Dozens of glowing sigils ignite across the front line. Mana flows like veins of light through the connected shields, fusing them into a barrier the height of a two-story house. Spells and arrows from the city walls rain down, but each projectile crashes harmlessly against the wall—sparking, scattering, or simply bouncing off the layered enchantments.
From behind that advancing wall, monster soldiers pour forth. Archers fire from protected slots, launching wave after wave of black-feathered bolts. Warbeasts snarl and rush forward, covered by their handlers, and infantry march with perfect discipline.
The monsters push forward without a single casualty.
"They're holding well," Lay mutters beside Sorin, watching the battle unfold through his mana-visor.
Sorin's eyes stay locked on the advancing tide. "Good. Keep them steady."
