Chapter 83: The Storm's Second Wave

The storm had diminished in intensity, but its grip on New Haven was far from loosened. The defenders had barely begun to regroup when an unnatural stillness fell over the town. The air, once filled with the howling wind and battle cries, grew suffocatingly silent. The lull was not a reprieve, it was the storm taking its breath, ready to strike again.

George stood at the edge of the eastern gate, his blade still glowing faintly from the previous fight. He scanned the mist-laden darkness beyond the walls, his senses on high alert. Behind him, his core team gathered, their exhaustion visible but their determination unwavering.

"Why does it feel worse now?" Jackie asked, her rifle slung over her shoulder as she joined him on the wall. Her sharp eyes darted toward every shadow that moved in the distance.

"It's like they're toying with us," Raven replied, her katana still drawn and ready. She looked at George. "What's the plan if they hit us again?"