Across the courtyard, Koth was losing.
Each of his strikes met perfect counters. Each advance pushed back with minimal effort. Orin wasn't even trying, just letting the massive demon exhaust himself.
"Admirable loyalty," the Grand Commander said, blocking another overhead strike. "But ultimately pointless."
His greatsword swept horizontal. Koth tried to dodge. Too slow.
The blade caught him across the ribs, cutting through armor like parchment. Blood sprayed. Koth stumbled.
Orin's boot came up, caught the demon in the chest, and sent him flying into the western wall hard enough to crack stone.
"Thirty seconds," the Grand Commander said, looking at Liam. "I gave you thirty seconds because your commander asked nicely. Did you do anything useful with them?"
Liam's hand tightened on Igar's Shard. The blade felt different now. Not heavier or lighter, just more present. Like an extension of his arm rather than a tool he was using.
"Maybe."
"Show me."
Orin moved.
