[A Desperate Stand]
The battlefield was a maelstrom of chaos. The Abyssal Dreadwyrm wreaked havoc, its necrotic flames reducing the Holy Dominion's once-formidable frontlines to smoldering ruins. Cries of anguish filled the air as soldiers were consumed by the relentless onslaught.
Amidst the turmoil, Grand Marshal Aldric stood resolute, his golden armor tarnished by ash but his spirit unyielding. Raising his radiant greatsword, he bellowed, "Hold the line! For the Light! For the Dominion!"
Inspired by their leader's unwavering resolve, the remaining crusaders rallied, forming defensive formations to protect the war priests as they chanted incantations to bolster their comrades' defenses.
---
[Damien's Unleashing]
From his vantage point atop the Necropolis Hall, Damien observed the battlefield with a cold, calculating gaze. The Holy Dominion's resilience was commendable, but ultimately futile.
With a subtle gesture, he activated the Soulbound Walls of Noxhaven. The dark fortifications pulsed with malevolent energy, drawing in the souls of the fallen to further strengthen the city's defenses.
"Let their valor feed our dominion," Damien murmured, a sinister smile playing on his lips.
---
[The Dreadwyrm's Rampage]
The Abyssal Dreadwyrm continued its assault, each sweep of its colossal wings sending shockwaves through the enemy ranks. Its necrotic breath decimated entire battalions, leaving nothing but charred remnants in its wake.
Despite the devastation, Aldric refused to retreat. Channeling the divine power bestowed upon him, he launched himself toward the beast, his greatsword gleaming with holy light.
With a mighty leap, he struck the Dreadwyrm's skeletal frame, the impact resonating like a thunderclap. The creature recoiled, momentarily stunned by the sheer force of the blow.
---
[Damien's New Power]
Sensing the shift in battle, Damien decided it was time to unveil his latest acquisition. Drawing upon the dark energies he had meticulously cultivated, he began to chant an incantation forbidden to all but the most malevolent of necromancers.
The ground beneath the crusaders trembled as ebon tendrils erupted, ensnaring soldiers and draining their life force. The fallen rose once more, now twisted abominations under Damien's command.
"Behold," Damien's voice echoed across the battlefield, "the true power of Noxhaven!"
---
[The Holy Army's Collapse]
The combined assault of the Abyssal Dreadwyrm and Damien's dark sorcery proved overwhelming. The Holy Dominion's forces, already battered and demoralized, began to falter.
Grand Marshal Aldric, witnessing the decimation of his army, clenched his jaw in anguish. He had sworn to protect his people, to vanquish the darkness, but now faced the grim reality of defeat.
"Fall back!" he commanded, his voice heavy with sorrow. "We must regroup!"
The remnants of the once-mighty crusade retreated, their spirits shattered, leaving Noxhaven victorious amidst the carnage.
---
[End of Chapter 8]