Outside Holtrien's Azure Gate, a vast army stretched across the land like a dark, rolling tide, lining up directly before the pass. Atop the gate, Philip, the highest-ranking commander of the military, withdrew his gaze and turned to the generals behind him.

He said calmly, "Hold the line to your last breath."

There were no extra words, yet the resolve in his tone was unmistakable.

"Yes, sir!"

The generals answered in unison, their voices ringing with steel-like force.

Philip walked down f