CHAPTER 33: THE TURNING TIDE

Scene 1: The Encroaching Darkness

The horizon was a jagged line of shadows, the Forgotten advancing with a ghostly silence. Mira stood atop a ridge, with the weight of the Ciphers pressing heavily in her satchel. Beside her, Kael tightened his grip on his sword, his knuckles has turned white.

"We can't face them head-on," Ethan murmured, his eyes scanning the approaching horde. "We're outnumbered."

Mira agreed, her mind racing. "We need to be strategic. Use the terrain to our advantage."

As the first ranks of the Forgotten reached the base of the ridge, Mira raised her hand. "Wait for my signal."

The tension was palpable, every second stretching into an eternity. Then, with a swift motion, Mira unleashed a burst of energy from the Cipher, sending a shockwave down the slope. The front lines of the Forgotten staggered, but quickly regained their composure, pressing forward relentlessly.

"Fall back!" Mira shouted. "To the ravine!"