The first wave hit our defenses like a storm.
Shadow beasts poured from the forest, dozens of them, their red eyes burning with hunger. Behind them came fighters in dark armor, weapons raised, faces hidden behind masks.
"Hold the line!" Lady Bloodmoon's voice rang across the settlement. "Let them come to us!"
I stood on the wall with a crossbow, my body protesting every movement but my hands steady. Beside me, Theron had his sword drawn. Kael was below with his shade fully manifested, a massive wall of living darkness between the attackers and our people.
The shadow beasts struck first, crashing into Kael's shade with force that shook the ground. His darkness wrapped around them, tearing them apart. But more kept coming. Too many. Even Kael couldn't stop them all.
"Archers!" Lady Bloodmoon commanded. "Fire!"
