The success of the supply convoy ambush had given Frank and his allies a boost of confidence—but Caelum Vire had been watching. From his hidden fortress, the mastermind orchestrated a response, one designed to test Frank and Elara to their limits.
Reports came quickly: villages along their supply routes were being attacked, strategically disrupted, but no lives were lost. Every move Caelum made was precise, calculated, and meant to force fear and hesitation.
Frank studied the reports, frustration lining his face. "He's not attacking directly yet. He's forcing us to react, spreading us thin."
Elara's grip tightened on her staff. "Then we fight smart. We anticipate, not just react."
THE FIRST TEST OF UNITY
Caelum's agents launched a multi-pronged assault on a small trade town allied with Veyruun. Frank's team split to protect key points:
Leo and the mercenaries held the town's main gate.
Frank and Elara moved to the western alleyways, a known route for flanking attacks.
Scouts were sent to intercept any reinforcements from the enemy's side.
The first wave of agents moved swiftly, confident in their coordination. But Frank had anticipated their route.
"Here," he whispered, signaling Elara. Together, they triggered hidden obstacles, creating chaos in the streets. Agents collided, misstepped, and hesitated.
Elara moved fluidly, striking down attackers trying to regain their formation. Her staff blocked and countered, each motion precise, each strike calculated.
FORCE AND CHAOS
The main squad of agents appeared, led by a lieutenant Frank recognized from earlier battles.
"You've learned to move as one," the lieutenant hissed, swinging his blade. "But unity is fragile."
Frank and Elara moved as a single unit, anticipating each other's motions. They blocked attacks, countered, and disrupted enemy formations—their teamwork amplifying their strength beyond individual skill.
Chaos was now their ally. Even the seasoned lieutenant hesitated, his perfect coordination breaking under unpredictable patterns.
THE AFTERMATH
By the time the smoke cleared, the town was saved, the enemy forced to retreat, and the allied forces unscathed. Frank and Elara stood in the center of the square, exhausted, bruised, yet victorious.
"You did well," Frank said, placing a hand on Elara's shoulder. "We made it through… together."
Elara smiled, breathing heavily. "We're stronger than we were yesterday. And stronger than he expects."
From the shadows beyond the town walls, Caelum's figure watched silently. His lips curved into a slow, deliberate smile.
"Clever… but predictable. They survive by unity, yes—but how long before fear breaks them? Let's push them further."