Chapter 77: The First Impact

The din of bells was still echoing through the city when the first enemy troops began to appear in sight. The dust raised by the marching horses and the soldiers' legs obscured the view, but the mass of men and beasts was visible enough for everyone to know that the attack was imminent.

Rodrigo, positioned in the center of the defense line, looked at his men with a mixture of determination and nervousness. He knew that the success of the initial defense would depend on the organization and courage of each of them.

"Stand firm!" Rodrigo shouted, his voice cutting through the growing tension. "Remember what we are defending. Do not let fear overcome you. They may be many, but our will to protect what is ours is greater!"

Sebastião observed from a strategic position, where he could see the movement of the attackers and the disposition of the defenses. He noticed that the enemy troops were beginning to form an attack line, preparing for the frontal assault. It was a critical moment, and the organization of the defenses would be tested immediately.

The first shock was brutal. The sound of spears striking barricades and the war cry of the enemy filled the air. The barricades shook under the impact, and the chaos of battle began to unfold with unrelenting intensity.

Sebastian spotted a group of enemy soldiers attempting to flank one of the side barricades. Without hesitation, he ran towards it, raising a makeshift club and helping to repel the charge. The battle was everywhere, and the need to maintain order and focus was essential.

Rodrigo stood in the center of the defense line, directing the efforts of his men. He had prepared for this for years, but the reality of battle was unlike any theory or planning. The chaos around him demanded not only courage, but also a keen ability to adapt his strategies as the situation changed.

"Reinforcements to the left!" Rodrigo shouted, seeing that the line was about to give way under the enemy pressure. "Keep formation! Don't let them get through!"

The battle was a brutal dance between attack and defense. Rodrigo noticed that, despite the losses and constant pressure, his men were managing to maintain control of the most critical areas. They were fighting with the ferocity and desperation of those who had no other option but to win.

Meanwhile, Sebastião fought alongside a group of armed civilians, helping to replenish ammunition and instructing them on how to position themselves strategically. He felt the adrenaline rush with every blow, every shout, but he also knew that the real test was yet to come. The first attack was only the beginning; they would need to remain firm and coordinated to withstand what was to come.

The sun was beginning to hide behind the clouds of dust and smoke from the battle when Rodrigo noticed a pause in the enemy attacks. Seizing the moment, he gave orders for a quick reorganization of the defense lines, adjusting his tactics according to the terrain and the situation.

"Are they retreating?" Sebastian asked, approaching Rodrigo, who was visibly tired but still focused.

"It could be a trick," Rodrigo replied, looking at the enemy lines. "They could just be regrouping for a second attack. We have to prepare for anything."

The battle scenario was far from over, but at least that first impact had been endured with courage and determination. The city had proven more resilient than anyone could have expected. Rodrigo and Sebastian knew that the real fight was yet to come, but for now, they had managed to buy time.

The city's inhabitants, who had faced the attack with bravery and unity, were now preparing for the next challenge. The fate of the city still hung in the balance, but there was a new hope in the air, a hope that came from everyone's determination to defend what was theirs.

And so, as the dust of battle began to settle and silence threatened to take over, Rodrigo and Sebastião prepared themselves for what was to come, knowing that the fight for survival was far from over.