"What's the meaning of this?!" Adele roared, her blade flashing into her hand.
In that instant, her aura erupted—a violent tempest of force exploding outward. The wind screamed, kicking up dust and rubble in cyclonic bursts around her. Shockwaves pulsed from her body in all directions, shaking the earth and tearing loose branches from nearby trees. Her cloak snapped like a whip in the pressure.
Her knights immediately responded, trained instincts taking over.
Clang! Clang!
Steel rang out as dozens of swords and spears were drawn in unison. Shields locked into formation with a thunderous rhythm. The front line formed a protective wall around Adele's carriage, while archers aimed their arrows up toward the cliff, ready to fire on command. Faces tensed, teeth clenched, their eyes burning with fear and resolve in equal measure.
But atop the cliff, Martina only chuckled, arms crossed, her crimson eyes gleaming with mischief and calm threat.
