But the fourth ray grazed his wingtip, taking a feather and a small piece of flesh with it.
The twelve ice lances in front of Celeine shot out simultaneously.
They collided with the rays of light, sending shards of ice flying.
The light pierced through the curtain of ice, grazing her cheek and leaving a shallow, bloody gash.
Elarius clapped his hands together.
A stone wall rose up.
The light struck the stone wall, sending stone fragments flying as the wall collapsed with a crash.
The ray of light dissipated as well.
Valerius crossed his claws, tearing the ray of light before him to shreds.
A few more scales on the tips of his claws shattered.
"Lady Douglas," Aurelius began, his voice raspy and low as it was forced from the eagle's throat. "You had already left. Why have you returned!"
As he spoke, his form changed once more.
He transformed from a golden eagle into a giant lion wreathed in flames.
Its four hooves trod upon the void as it lunged toward Cheris.
