(Eldric's POV — Continuation of Flashback to 31 years ago — Age 46 — Northern Borders of the Eryndor Empire)
I hold my greatsword ready, instantly channeling my Magical Force to coat the steel in a blistering shroud of fire and light magic.
At the same time, I trigger a continuous self-healing spell to circulate through my veins, priming my heart and muscles to face the lone wolf who had just breached my territory.
The moment I step into the basement, the damp, subterranean air hits me. Torches flicker violently along the walls, casting long, erratic shadows down the hallway lined with iron cell doors on either side.
Right there, outside the fifth cell on the right, stand those seven fucking idiots. They are casually leaning against the damp masonry, laughing and jeering like they're at a tavern. I can hear their empty, arrogant voices echoing off the stone.
"What a perfect start to our deployment!"
"We captured one of those fearsome Bladewardens alive on our own!"
