Some of the men faltered. Others, driven by hunger and fear, rushed forward anyway.

The clash was brutal. Steel met steel. The sound of grunts, shouts, and bodies hitting the ground filled the air. Without magic or shifting, everything came down to skill, strength, and sheer will.

Osman fought close to the carriage, his movements precise and controlled as he deflected one attacker after another.

The Alpha King decided to split their convoy, choosing caution over pride. His own group moved ...