Chapter 18: The First Wave
The sky above Greystone roiled with ash-gray clouds, casting long shadows across the battlefield. At the edge of the tree line, the monstrous horde loomed like a crawling storm, their snarls echoing like thunder across the open plain.
Three massive figures stood at the vanguard of the Tide: General Kong, the obsidian-skinned brute with arms like tree trunks and fangs that jutted over his lips; Inferna, the inferno-wreathed ape whose fur constantly smoldered, leaving scorched footprints in his wake; and towering above them all, Whiteclaw—the Pale Tyrant, leader of the Tide. His silver-white fur shimmered beneath the darkened sky, his crimson eyes surveying the distant walls of Greystone with disdain.
General Kong chuckled, cracking his knuckles. "They built walls, the little things. Do they think stone will save them from our tide?"
Inferna snorted a puff of smoke. "They'll burn all the same. Their beasts won't even answer their calls when fear takes them."
Whiteclaw the Silverback raised a massive arm, silencing them. "Let them witness despair. Send the fodder. Let their hope die with the first wave."
The front lines of the Tide surged forward—hundreds of pale apes and twisted beasts howling as they charged. But Silvermaw and his generals remained still, content to watch the slaughter they believed inevitable.
—
Far behind Greystone's reinforced walls, Lucas Carter stood atop the ramparts, eyes closed as the wind tugged at his cloak. Umbra and Zephyra stood flanking him, their auras resonating in quiet sync.
DING!
[System Quest Alert: Last Stand of Greystone]Objective: Survive the Tide. Defeat the Generals. Secure the Barony.Optional Objective: Eliminate 70% of the Tide Army before they breach the wall.Reward: ???
Lucas opened his eyes, now glowing faintly with the residual light of Zephyra's bond. "Let's begin."