Fortunately, the spell did not cover the entire area instantly. It began from the Nighthral's immediate surroundings and spread outward like a slow, suffocating tide. Although it failed to pierce the protective barrier of Aetherthorn, its effects looked grim for Queen Elarya and her crew.
"Oh no…"
"Run!"
"Hurry! Grab those who are still trapped in the illusions! " Elarya commanded, swinging her golden thorn spear to shatter the black spikes lunging toward them. Yet as soon as she broke them, they regrew almost instantly, one lashing so close it nearly grazed her head.
"Darn it…" She stepped back sharply, retreating with her warriors. As much as she wanted to reach the safety of Aetherthorn, the wall of living thorns blocked every path, waiting to impale anything that tried to break through.
