Chapter 20: The Final Stand

The Howling Hounds retreated to their final defensive position within the inner pass. Frenrys, Lyssa, Nyran, and Kiera stood at the forefront, ready to make their last stand. The Valnerynes forces pressed forward, their determination unwavering.

Tiberius Rynero, mounted on Scorchfang, advanced with a menacing smile. "Your resistance is futile," he called out. "Surrender now, and I might spare your lives."

Frenrys stood tall, his resolve unshaken. "We will never surrender. For Gamachiana!"

Rynero's eyes narrowed. "So be it." He raised his hand, signaling the final assault. The Valnerynes surged forward, their war cries echoing through the pass.

The battle raged on, each side vying for dominance. Frenrys, at the heart of the conflict, fought with a fury born of desperation and a desire to protect his people. His Nature's Wrath summoned the very earth to his aid, entangling and crushing his foes.

Nyran's Storm Strike unleashed bolts of lightning that arced through the mist, striking down Valnerynes soldiers with deadly precision. His Guardian's Aegis shielded his comrades from harm, providing a much-needed respite from the relentless assault.

Lyssa's Blade Dance was a blur of steel and precision, cutting through the oncoming Valnerynes with deadly grace. Her Shield Wall held the line, but the pressure was immense.

Kiera's Predator's Mark highlighted key targets, making them easier for her allies to strike down. Her Shadow Step allowed her to move through the battlefield with ease, striking from the shadows and disappearing before the enemy could retaliate.

Despite their best efforts, the Valnerynes' numbers began to take their toll. The Howling Hounds were pushed back, their lines faltering under the relentless assault. Frenrys knew they needed to take desperate measures. "Nyran, can you create a diversion? We need to buy more time," he called out.

Nyran nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Leave it to me," he replied, his voice calm and resolute. He raised his staff high and called forth a massive Storm Strike. Lightning crackled and danced across the battlefield, striking down Valnerynes soldiers and creating a temporary barrier of electrical energy.

The lightning strikes created brief pockets of visibility, allowing the Howling Hounds to see their enemies and respond accordingly. Archers, perched on the cliffs above, let loose volleys of arrows that whistled through the air and found their marks among the advancing Valnerynes.

Frenrys took advantage of the chaos, using Nature's Wrath to summon massive roots and vines that entangled and crushed the attackers. The vines twisted and coiled, binding their legs and arms, while Frenrys used his enhanced strength to cut down those who broke free.

Despite their efforts, the Valnerynes' numbers began to take their toll. The Howling Hounds were pushed back, their lines faltering under the relentless assault. Frenrys knew they couldn't hold out much longer. "Fall back to the inner pass!" he commanded, his voice carrying over the din of battle.

As they retreated, Lyssa used her Shield Wall to protect their flank, creating a defensive barrier that slowed the enemy's advance. The Howling Hounds regrouped, their breaths coming in ragged gasps as they prepared for the next wave.