110. The Final Anchor

The Blackstone Road Marshal lowered its raised hand and more than thirty shields moved forward together.

The soldiers did not rush. They crossed the station courtyard in three tight rows, every step landing at the same time. Red lines spread beneath their boots and connected them to the final Road Anchor behind them.

Kaia moved everyone closer before the formation reached them.

"Bearkin in front. Archers behind them. Do not spread out."

Brann and the shield-bearing Guardian took the centre. Garr and the fourth Bearkin protected both sides. Carlos stood beside Kaia behind the first line while Two remained near his feet.

The enemy reached them and Brann struck first.

His hammer hit the nearest shield with enough force to throw an ordinary soldier backward. The shield bent, but its owner only moved one step.

Red light travelled up from the road and entered its body.