Laurence stumbled backward, his eyes wide as he stared at the spaces where minotaurs had been standing seconds ago. "What... where did they..."
Only Brutus remained, the largest minotaur standing motionless as he regarded Laurence with contempt.
"They returned to our Master's domain," he stated, his tone making clear he had no intention of explaining further to someone he'd already dismissed as worthless.
Then Brutus turned toward where Rhys had been waiting near the courtyard's edge, the young mage having observed the entire exchange.
"Let's go," Brutus commanded, his voice carrying authority that expected immediate compliance.
Rhys nodded once, as wind gathered around his form.
The air itself seemed to respond to his will, currents materializing and solidifying into a force that lifted him from the ground.
The wind carried him upward and forward, depositing him onto Brutus's shoulder, where he settled into position.
