~ from Seduced by Moonlight
Ward charged the circle, roaring. Above him, the ravens shrieked, adding to the chaos as they flew off. The robed figures recoiled in terror, one stumbling back and knocking over a stone that had been part of the ritual’s design.
Its disruption caused a ripple effect, and the carefully constructed magic unraveled, sparks of dark energy fizzing into the night air like dangerous fireworks. Then he sensed his wards screaming a warning. Good gods, they’d somehow dampened his wards.
“Release her,” Ward commanded, unfurling his wings, his tail whipping menacingly behind him.
One particular witch, distinguishable by an intricate amulet that hung low around her neck, stepped forward, pulling back her hood to reveal a face twisted by dark intent and eyes that gleamed like molten silver. Her hair was an unnatural shade of deep violet.
“You do not understand, gargoyle king. And you meddle in things that don’t concern you. Leave us.”
“My land.” Ward snarled, revealing sharp fangs and a forked tongue. “My concern. You do not command me. I am king here, and I—”
“I have no time for you.” The robed figure sneered, then raised her hands, muttering, as her hands glowed.
