"Take your positions and protect the princess!"

Rhydian gritted his teeth against the searing pain clawing at his mind and let out a raw, guttural roar.

He and the two other guards summoned the last reserves of their internal energy to form a makeshift triangular defensive formation, shielding Grace, Judith, and the dying Cyprian behind them.

But they all knew that before these four terrifying puppets, their defense was as flimsy as paper. Still, the fight could erupt at any moment.

…

Deep