Arrows flew like deadly rain, shields raised high. Amid the chaos, Anna found herself face-to-face with a young mercenary soldier. Their eyes met—fear and defiance mingling.
She lowered her sword for a heartbeat.
> In war, enemies see only death. But I see a man trapped by his own chains.
A war horn sounded, snapping her back to the fight.
The oasis echoed with the clash of steel and cries of battle. Flames licked the palm trees as mercenaries pressed their assault, but the freed tribe fought fiercely, led by Anna and Amastan.