The monstrous wolves lunged from every direction.

"Protect the princess!" Sir Elias roared, drawing his sword.

The elite knights formed a defensive circle around Seraphina and Oracle Selene as the beasts slammed into their shields with terrifying force.

A wolf twice the size of a horse leaped through the air, its jaws snapping toward Seraphina.

Before it could reach her—

Slash!

Lucien's black sword sliced across its chest.

The beast let out a painful howl before dissolving into black smoke.

"They're not real wolves!" Oracle Selene shouted.

"They're creatures created with dark magic!"

Another pack charged from the trees.

Lucien stood at the front, cutting down one creature after another,...