Chapter 75: The Siege Begins

As they raced toward the village, the sounds of chaos grew louder. Isabella's heart hammered in her chest. She tightened her grip on Lena's hand, offering the girl a reassuring squeeze.

"We're almost there," Isabella said, more to herself than anyone else.

They burst into the clearing to find the village in disarray. Buildings were ablaze, villagers running in every direction, and the clash of steel against steel echoed through the air. Samuel pointed toward the center of the village.

"They came out of nowhere," he explained, his voice strained. "We tried to hold them off, but their magic... it's too powerful."

Isabella nodded, her mind racing. "Where are our fighters?"

"Most of them are at the front, trying to protect the elders and the children. But they're struggling."

Aeliana drew her sword, her eyes hard and determined. "Then we need to even the odds."

Isabella turned to Lena. "Stay with Samuel. He'll keep you safe."

Lena's eyes widened with fear, but she nodded bravely. "