Before we could fully react the enemy soldiers were upon us. Both of them had wicked looks on their face with their weapons within reach. I looked at Valeria, her expression was stern, and she looked determined, her hand encircling the hilt of her sword.

“Stay close,” I muttered, emphasizing the words and clenching my fists to fight the urge to hide around the corner from increasing heart rate.

The first soldier came at me this time with his sword charging through the air. He attempted to strike me; but I deflected the sword with mine, the sound of the impact still resonating in my head. I managed to lash...