Four more figures rushed forward from the shadows, weapons drawn and hostile intent radiating from every movement.
Bandits, clearly coordinating their ambush.
"An ambush–nya?!"
Niya's ears flattened in panic.
"I'm so sorry, everyone–!"
"Stay back,"
Nero's voice cut through her distress, calm and measured.
Aurelia had already stepped forward, her hand moving to her sword hilt.
The six former wives shifted into combat stances, ready to engage.
"Wait."
Nero raised a hand, stopping them all.
His black pupils were fixed on the approaching bandits with a hint of interest.
"Let me handle this."
"Lord Nero–" Aurelia began.
"I want to test something."
There was something in his tone that made even the angel pause.
The lead bandit, emboldened by their numbers, sneered at Nero's apparent arrogance.
"Quite brave now, big boy! If you think just killing our best thrower will make us scared, you're dead–"
*Boom!*
