The cold, heavy mist filled the ancient battlefield. Black flames rose from the footsteps of the Shadow Guardians, drowning the air in darkness.
Arin gripped his sword tightly. His friends stood behind him, ready, yet the crushing presence of their enemies made even breathing feel impossible.
"They are only the vanguard…" The calm voice of the mysterious mage echoed in their minds. "What lies beyond is something even the greatest empires fear."
The battle began.
Arin's sword struck with blazing force, but the shadows swallowed the wound instantly. His other blows were useless.
Kai, his closest companion, hurled his spear with a fierce cry. For a brief moment, a streak of light tore through the darkness—only to fade away.
One Guardian slammed its weapon into the ground, splitting the earth apart. A wave of shadow surged across the entire field, forcing the heroes back step by step.
"Hold together!" Arin shouted. "We are still standing—we are not defeated yet!"
But deep inside, he knew… for the first time, true defeat was possible.
And then, in the midst of despair, a familiar voice whispered inside his mind—the elder of the village:
"Arin… every defeat is a bridge to greater strength. Remember, in the darkest night, the brightest star is born."
Before Arin could answer, the darkness consumed everything.