One afternoon, while Leon was in the middle of sparring with Kael, a scout from the rebellion came rushing into the village, his face pale and his breath labored.

“They’re coming,” the scout gasped, collapsing at the feet of the village leader. “The kingdom’s forces...

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Panic spread through the village like wildfire. The peaceful rest they had enjoyed was about to be shattered. Leon felt his heart race as he looked toward the horizon, where dark clouds seemed to gather.

Kael placed a hand on his shoulder, his expression grave. “This is the moment you’ve been training for. Remember everything I’ve taught you.”

Leon nodded, his grip tightening on the hilt of his sword. “I won’t let them destroy this place.”

But even as he spoke the words, a pit of dread formed in his stomach. He had seen the devastation the kingdom’s army could bring, and this village was far from prepared.