ZURI

Kai and Denny landed beside me, each of them flanking my sides without a word. Their faces were drawn, but their stance was solid and unshaken.

Behind us, a few of the generals ran forward with their blades raised and ready, forming a tight circle around me. The storm of battle raged behind them, but in this small clearing, time seemed to hold its breath.

I smiled faintly and shook my head at the sight of Eigil and Aadan standing across from us. Their clothes were torn and splattered, ...