Tristan let out a defiant laugh as the Hyrssydens circled him like hungry wolves. "Is that all you've got? A bunch of mangy mutts to do your mistress's bidding?" He bared his teeth in a mocking grin. "Come on, then. Let's see if you curs have any bite to match your bark."
The beasts prowled the edges of the chamber, their growls betraying uncertainty before this prey that reeked of ancient power. Tristan's mockery echoed through the chamber, goading them further. "What's the matter, fleabags? Too scared to taste Ravenswood steel?" Tristan taunted, crouching into a fighter's stance"
Just then, a disembodied voice sliced through the growls - familiar, resonant, touched with otherworldly echoes. "Well met, brother."
Tristan spun towards the familiar timbre, eyes widening briefly before nar
