HIS ARRIVAL [1]

The night was still and cool, the desert's heat having dissipated into the sands as the stars overhead began to fade, making way for the first light of dawn.

Jay, ever vigilant, was the first to notice the change.

A powerful gust of wind stirred the air, and the canvas of their tents began to flap violently.

Sand whipped up around them, creating a brief but intense sandstorm that shook the camp awake.

"What the...?" Jay muttered, shielding his eyes from the blowing sand.

The knights and mages scrambled out of their tents, weapons in hand, ready for any threat that might come their way.

General Raniel barked orders, his voice carrying over the noise of the wind.

"Everyone, on alert! Form defensive positions!"Benjamin, standing beside him, tried to peer through the swirling sand.

"What in the world could be causing this? It's too strong for a normal storm."

Hans, ever the enthusiastic barbarian, cracked his knuckles.