章 280: They Are Coming

The aftermath of the battle still lingered in the air, the acrid scent of dissipated dark magic mixed with the iron tang of blood. The knights regrouped near the edge of the cavern, gathering around Sophie as she assessed each of her people. The exhaustion was evident in their stances, in the way their shoulders slumped, weapons dragging on the ground as they caught their breath.

"Theo, sit down for a moment. You've got a nasty cut," Sophie said, her voice filled with concern. Theo complied without argument, lowering himself to the cold stone floor, his shield resting beside him. The shield-bearer gave Sophie a nod, his face pale but holding steady, even as his eyes winced at the movement.