The [Engaged] notification flashed before Ren's eyes, accompanied by the familiar metallic chime of the system.
There was no escaping the encounter now.
Not that he had any intention of retreating.
His eyes settled on the Satyr standing confidently before him while the surrounding forest grew eerily quiet.
"What have you done to the Princess?" Ren asked, his voice calm despite the dangerous aura radiating from his body.
Zakou threw his head back and laughed, the shrill sound echoing through the ancient trees.
"I'll admit she was difficult to charm," he said with a smug grin. "Royal blood always carries annoying protections. But once she listened to my melody for more than a minute..." He twirled his flute between his fingers. "No spell, blessing, or divine protection could free her."
Ren narrowed his eyes. "So that's how it works..."
He summoned both of his scepters into his hands. Streams of mana coursed through the weapons as faint runes illuminated their polished surfaces.
