Thunder and lightning rumbled, and a tall, bright beam of light shot out of Cypriox, visible across the entire land.
"Everyone, fall back! That's the work of the priest Coventher!" Sentheria's voice boomed. She knew Coventher well. She had heard rumors that Cypriox was in chaos because of a new system proposed by its three kings, including the one she hated, King Hebronor. "That's dangerous! It could wipe out a whole nation in an instant, like a blast of pure energy and light!"
"Evacuate the people! The ocean waves could get out of control!" Sentheria shouted to the Aopudes clan. The people were already panicking as the sea grew violent.
Xerxez watched the Aopudes' true forms—people with bird-like features who could turn into humans. He was quickly grabbed and carried to safety. The male Aopudes had green and blue wings with colorful feathers, but the females' feathers were even more vibrant, with fiery red feathers that shone brightly when they opened their wings.
