I dismissed [Mana Shield], the faint shimmer around me fading as I moved through the thinning smoke—Nira still in my grip, dazed but breathing.
The blast had stirred up just enough chaos, scattering ash and debris through the trees, masking my retreat perfectly. I took full advantage of it, slipping between the shadows and putting distance between us and the others.
Behind me, the sounds of battle rose—shouts, flame, the twang of arrows, and the harsh clash of bone against stone. I allowed myself a grin, the corner of my mouth curling as I listened.
My little plan had worked.
The moment Gork saw her engulfed in flames, something inside him broke. And now, they were too busy tearing each other apart to realize they'd already lost.
I understood that kind of rage—knew how blinding it could be. If it had been Zarah caught in the blast, I might've done the same… or worse.
Nira stirred again, struggling weakly in my grip, but I wasn't about to let her slip free.
