*Kryzen*
I thrashed against the shadows that held me, but they clung to me like chains of midnight, unbreakable and cold. My muscles screamed in protest, my heart hammering against my chest. I was supposed to be there beside her fighting and protecting. But Briella stood there alone, her bright green eyes fierce and resolute as she faced down Tian.
"Kryzen!" Her voice sliced through the thick air, a mixture of determination and fear.
"Hold on, Briella! I'm trying!" I shouted back, my voice hoarse with desperation. The shadows didn't even quiver at my struggle.
She squared her shoulders, her petite form almost swallowed by the looming figure of Tian. His face was now twisted into something dark and unrecognizable. I saw the flash of her blade, a glint of silver in the dim light, and my heart leaped to my throat.
"Please, Tian," Briella pleaded.
