The clearing erupted into a maelstrom of energy as Amon lunged forward, his dark aura slamming into the barrier that encased Lilith. The shimmering shield crackled under the assault, but it held firm, glowing faintly with an unnatural light.
"Amon, stop!" Avilyn shouted, her voice sharp and commanding. "That barrier isn't just magic—it's tied to Lilith's life force. If you push too hard, you'll hurt her!"
Amon froze mid-strike, his fiery gaze darting to Lilith. She was slumped against a tree, her blue hair damp with sweat, the glowing roots pulsing faintly as they held her in place. A low growl escaped Amon's throat as he took a step back, fists clenched in frustration.
"How do we break it?" he demanded, his voice low but taut with urgency.