Burdens of Power

Garrick Bloodclaw could not handle nineteen awakeners, even with the weakest among them being at the deme-rank. Some had already reached the astra-rank, making them a force to be reckoned with. In a matter of seconds, he was pinned to the ground with swords aimed at his neck, limbs, and heart. Garrick could not even breathe without a weapon cutting into his flesh, forcing him to lie in horror as he glared at Julia, who sat behind them.

"We have members of Thiria better than any other, but it always seems that some prick from your nation comes over and ruins the image," said Julia, taking several steps forward. "Your punishment was banishment, but you attempted to attack me just now, did you not?"

Garrick continued to glare at her, unable to move his mouth without a sword slicing into his neck. The nineteen figures stared at him with clear killing intent, and he knew that Julia could command them to kill him.