The water surged violently.

Outside, the long strands of waterweed began to twitch and stretch, as if something alive was about to emerge. Then, all at once, they shot inward toward the two people standing at the center.

Andrew twisted his body, barely dodging a deadly strike. However, Shiloh, still gripping her sword with one hand, was not as lucky. Caught off guard, she was lashed hard across the chest by a strand of waterweed.

She gasped and spat out a mouthful of blood.

Andrew's hear