As soon as Alaric charged toward the enemy lines, Ruben sprang into action. He knew that his first priority was survival.
A shimmering shield materialized around him—a complex barrier designed not only to block physical force but to repel elemental attacks as well.
The shield completed just as a wave of lightning crashed toward him.
CRAAAACK!
The surge tore into the barrier, cracks spidering across its surface. Ruben hurriedly began constructing a second shield, knowing the first wouldn't hold.
SHATTER!
The shield disintegrated in an instant, but he was ready. A second, stronger shield flared to life just as the next wave of lightning bore down upon him.
BOOM!
This time, the barrier held, though faint cracks formed along its edges. Ruben exhaled in relief. It was stable enough to withstand further assaults for now. But defense alone wouldn't win the battle.