The unmarked iron longsword descended toward Solomon's arms.
A silver blade suddenly erupted directly through the center of the attacker's chest. The brutal strike lifted the man entirely off his feet, hoisting his body high into the cavern.
He dangled helplessly from the end of the foreign weapon like a morbid puppet.
The remaining four thugs spun around in absolute shock. The violent interruption happened in a literal split second. One moment, their companion was preparing to sever Solomon's grip, and the next, he was impaled.
Three cloaked figures stood quietly near the portal entrance. Unlike the masked thieves, these newcomers left their faces entirely visible.
Panic overtook the four surviving thugs. They instantly drew their weapons and lunged at the intruders.
The second cloaked figure stepped forward to intercept them. He moved with blinding speed, reaching out and grabbing the two leading men directly by their faces.
