Alpha Rex.
The marsh water rose, not attacking but lifting gently, forming a barrier between villagers and shadow creatures.
The shadows struck it and dissolved like ink washed clean.
Mara stared in shock.
“You didn’t destroy them.”
Isabella’s voice shook.
“I redirected them.”
The water settled again.
Silence returned.
Ash lowered his sword slowly.
“Well,” he said, breathing hard, “that’s new.”
Mara turned back to Isabella, something like respect in her gaze now.
“Perhaps,” she said quietly, “this cycle truly is different.”
Far away at the border, Rex felt the surge through the bond and smiled faintly despite himself.
Sikat na Kabanata