Chapter 76: The Battle Begins

The coalition army went surging, a dark tide over the landscape, vast banners and armor glinting ominously in the sun. Ariadne watched it imperturbably from the palace ramparts. Long had they prepared for this very moment, this trial that would show the measure of the kingdom, and of her leadership.

Beside her were Thalia, Seraphina, Captain Leander, and a cadre of trusted commanders. It was a moment heavy with anticipation, the distant sound of marching feet, the premonition guaranteed by that relentless drumbeat of the coming storm.

"We'd surmised that this day would come," Captain Leander said coolly, but there was a trace of grim resolution in his voice. "They think they can break us down, but they really don't understand our will and unity."

Ariadne nodded, eyes set on the advancing enemy. "We shall show them the strength of our people, the power of our unity, for they may have the numbers, but we have got the heart and determination," he spoke. "We make sure they remember this d