Story 413: The Collapse

The ground shook violently as the Warlord of the Forsaken lunged at Shadow, its axe slicing through the air with terrifying force. She dodged, barely avoiding the swing, the blade carving a jagged arc into the stone floor where she had stood a moment before. Sweat dripped from her brow as she spun, her twin blades flashing as she aimed for the vulnerable gaps in the Warlord’s armor.

The monstrous leader growled in fury, swatting at her with its shield. The impact sent her staggering, but she regained her footing quickly. “Rook, whatever you’re doing, hurry up!” she yelled, her voice tinged with desperation.

Across the battlefield, Rook ducked and weaved through the throng of skeletal warriors. The undead clawed and slashed at him, their relentless attack forcing him to block and counter as he pressed toward the ancient lever. Each step felt like an eternity, his breath labored, his muscles screaming in protest.