Hypnotism and illusions...

"Stay away from me!" Selene screamed, grabbing a small dagger from her side. Without hesitation, she lunged at him.

Adrian sidestepped the attack easily, but the sight of the blade sent a chill down his spine. His eyes widened in shock as Selene slashed at him again, her movements quick but uncoordinated.

He had no idea Selene, quiet and reserved Selene had this energy in her. He didn't want to hurt her, but she wasn't giving him a choice. The manticore watched with cold amusement, its tail swaying like a cobra ready to strike.

"Selene, snap out of it!" Adrian shouted, blocking her wild swings with his sword. "It's not real—this is the manticore's doing!"

But Selene didn't seem to hear him, her expression twisted into a snarl. Her mind was too clouded by the creature's influence. She lashed out with renewed fury, her eyes wild and crazed. She swung again, and this time, her dagger grazed Adrian's arm, drawing a thin line of blood.