---
Flint answered with a shrill whistle, the east alarm. Needle answered west. Cerastis warriors sprang from bedrolls, shields locking into a half-circle. Mia stepped from her makeshift command tent, crimson armor buckled but cloak still half removed. She took one glance at the incoming tide and drew her double-sabre.
"Thea!" she hissed. "That bitch finally showing her true colours."
Blue-cloaked twenty ants slid down dune faces, kicking plumes. Their formations were tight and drilled. Thea's elite razors. At their head strode Captain Darius, aura bright enough to cast his own moonlit shadow. His eyes found Kai first, glinting with satisfaction.
He raised his hands. "Advance."
The two banners collided like storm fronts. On the east flank Flint's repeater clacked, bolts lancing into the first wave. Shale met three glaives at once, hammer roaring. Needle danced, parrying, and counter thrusting.
