The devastation of Direwitch Castle stretched far and wide before them, now reduced to nothing more than scattered rubble, remnants of its former glory veiled in a mist of dust and blood. The bodies of Zodiac's soldiers and guards lay sprawled among the ruins, some charred by the magical explosions that tore the castle apart. The metallic scent of blood filled the air, mixing with the heat and lingering flames. There was no sign of life, except for a monstrous figure trapped within the debris—Zodiac.
Alaric hovered high above, speeding towards the remnants of the castle. The wind he stirred created whirlwinds of dust beneath him. Before continuing his flight, Alaric turned towards Piere, who still stood in disbelief on the ground.
"Piere, make sure you protect Zanuba. Take her to the dungeons to rescue Angela," Alaric commanded, his voice firm despite his casual demeanor.