Chapter 499: The Cinder Brood’s Stand
As the mystical storm raged over Hollow Shade warriors of the Valley Tribes continued to rush towards the Western Gate in droves, weapons raised, battle cries on their lips. But as they neared the gate a lone figure floated above. A mage in deep blue robes, standing atop a swirling disk of water. Her grey hair drifted wildly in the raging winds. Electricity crackled throughout her body. The warriors stared up at the Tempest Archmage with fear in their eyes, but bloodlust filled their hearts and pushed them forward.
With a snap of her wrists, Ismene called lightning down on the incoming warriors. She weaved her hands through the rain, forming dozens of liquid spears, and hurled them through the battalions, slicing through men and women without mercy.
The warriors shot arrows and javelins at her relentlessly. Shields of water swirled to life around her, blocking every attack. Valley mages cast bolts of flame, beams of light, shards of rock, and more. Ismene weaved torrent spells into existence and struck down each magical blast.
The daughters of House Noir watched from the wall as the small lone figure held off the entire battalion.
“You used to tell me stories of how powerful Ismene was but this is… she’s terrifying,” Unalla said in awe.
“She’s pushing herself too far,” Una muttered. “She’s in pain, she’s angry…”
Unalla glanced at her uncle’s body, lying slumped on the wall. Loh knelt next to Elzri, holding his hand. Her head was bowed and she hadn’t moved nor spoken since Elzri had fallen, save for her shuddering cries and trembling shoulders.
“Oh no,” Una whispered in dismay.
“What? What is it?” Unalla asked. She followed her mother’s gaze and spotted a small group of centaurs galloping towards the gate. One of the riders carried a black banner depicting a green serpent wrapped around a vine, the crest of the Undergrowth House of Loch. “It can’t be… he’s alive!?” she gasped.