Kassandra and Demetra joined Archer, their boots sinking into the muddy ground thanks to the rainstorm that had just ended. The shark beauty's eyes sparkled with admiration. ''That was incredible,'' she said, her earlier frustration replaced by awe.
The kraken beauty smirked, nudging his shoulder. ''Show-off. But you've helped them now."
She gestured to the soldiers, some of whom saluted from their posts.
Archer grinned faintly, his chest heaving from the exertion. "Let's get back inside before we're all soaked through," he said, leading the way toward the tower. As they walked, another peal of thunder rumbled, but the fortress stood firm, its walls glowing faintly with his protective magic. Inside, the fire still blazed warmly, and the trio settled once more.
