Adam's fist shot forward, dark energy crackling around his knuckles. Sean's form dissolved into black mist, the punch passing through empty air. The assassin reappeared several feet away, his stance low, a curved dagger gleaming in each hand.
"Tch. Wait—"
Adam didn't wait. He pressed forward, his movements fluid, relentless. Behind him, the forge erupted in shouts and clashing steel as Ignis's flames met the assassins' blades.
"Attack! Protect the commander!" one of the assassins shouted.
They surged toward Adam, but Lilith's threads were faster. Silver silk wrapped around ankles, wrists, throats, sending the first wave crashing to the ground in tangled heaps.
Sean dodged another strike, his form flickering like a candle in the wind. His voice was tight, edged with frustration.
"Perhaps I was too hasty. Coming at you with poisoned daggers... that was a mistake."
Adam's lips curved into a cold smile. He didn't slow.
