Prince Valdris watched as the darkness continued to seep from Elise's form, his violet-blue eyes narrowing with displeasure rather than fear.
"I didn't expect the Lich to have the audacity to interrupt my negotiations," he muttered, straightening his immaculate robes. "How dreadfully inconvenient."
The old knight—Reinfort—moved swiftly, positioning himself more firmly between the prince and the possessed princess. His sword remained raised, its blade gleaming with a faint holy light that seemed to push back against the encroaching shadows.
"Your Highness, you must retreat. Take shelter behind the wards. This is too dangerous."
More soldiers poured into the room behind him, their weapons drawn, their faces pale but determined. They formed a protective semicircle around Valdris, their eyes fixed on the transformed figure before them.
