The Princess Takes the Blade

The severed hand of King Eroan lay on the cold, blood-slicked floor, a grim reminder of Ilyrana's strike. For a brief moment, the hall was silent except for the shallow gasps of the wounded and the distant echoes of steel clashing in the palace. Then, a roar erupted from King Eroan, shaking the walls with its fury.

"Kill her! Take her down now!" he bellowed, his voice a mix of pain and rage. His good hand clenched tightly, the stump of his wrist still bleeding but bound by a hasty cloth wrap.

His words sent a ripple through his forces. Sentinels and Wardens who had been unoccupied turned as one, focusing solely on Ilyrana. Swords were drawn, spears levelled, and magic-free tactics were employed with precision and deadly intent.

Ilyrana readied her blade, her stance firm despite the onslaught heading her way. This was no longer a moment of observation—she was now part of the chaos.