The dawn broke over Zorath, and Baines's lodgings stirred with activity as his exclusive guards and servant, Mark, arrived early. Their eyes widened at the sight of the garden, as its rare plants stripped bare overnight. The guards exchanged wary glances.
"Come in," Baines called from the doorway, his voice curt. He vanished inside, leaving the eleven to follow, their unease palpable.
Inside, Baines sat, his presence commanding. Without preamble, he opened his pocket space, and a metallic clatter filled the air.
Clang… Clang.
Black chains spilled forth, glinting with an otherworldly sheen. The guards and Mark tensed, drawing weapons. "Sir, what are you doing?" the 5th-star guard leader demanded, his frown deepening.
Baines didn't respond. The chains lashed out, swift and relentless. "Sun barrier!" the leader roared. The guards rallied, their auras merging into a golden shield, reinforced by their collective strength.
BANG!
