Cosmic Fables: A Princess Odyssey

15. Shadows of Darkness

As Ira collapsed onto the ground, Aashi persisted with her relentless attacks. Casting a glance at the others standing at a safe distance, she directed her assault towards them.

Riaan, Aesha, Arin, Eir, and Raya formed a protective barrier around Avi, Arsh, Vani, and Advait, choosing not to retaliate as Ira had requested.

However, Arin reached his breaking point. Frustrated by Aashi's incessant aggression, he transformed into his dragon form and prepared to unleash a powerful white energy sphere upon her.

Observing this scene from a distance, Ira called out desperately, "Arin, stop!"

Regrettably, her plea fell upon deaf ears, as Arin had already launched his attack. Swiftly, Ira took flight and positioned herself in front of Aashi, absorbing the brunt of Arin's energy blast.

The force of the attack sent Aashi hurtling to the ground. Overwhelmed by guilt, Arin descended from the sky, resuming his human form, and approached Ira, who lay in pain, her body marked by bruises and scars from his unintentional strike.

Arin sincerely apologized, his remorse evident. "I'm so sorry. I let my anger consume me. I never meant to hurt you. Please forgive me."

The others gathered around Ira, their expressions a mix of anger and concern.

Riaan's voice brimmed with fury. "Arin, Ira specifically warned us not to attack Aashi, and yet you disregarded her words. Look at what has happened to Ira because of your actions."

Raya added concern, "You should have controlled your anger, Arin."

Arin stood there with apologetic expression. Eir and Aesha sat near Ira looking at her wounds.

Meanwhile, Avi, Arsh, Vani, and Advait watched Ira from a distance, perplexed and unable to comprehend Aashi's sudden aggression towards her, as well as the origins of her newfound powers.

Amidst the confusion, Avi found himself grappling with conflicting emotions. He had believed he harbored feelings for Aashi, but at that moment, his heart ached for Ira, who lay injured on the ground. He couldn't feel anything but anger towards Aashi who had hurt Ira.

Ira reassured everyone, her voice strained. "No, it's alright. Arin was merely trying to protect all of you..."

Her gaze then shifted towards Aashi as she continued, "I don't understand where she's drawing this dark energy from."

Suddenly, Ira noticed Aashi preparing to launch another attack. Determination ignited within her, and her hands emanated a radiant light, conjuring a protective shield around others.

Gathering her strength, she ascended into the sky and approached Aashi, meeting her gaze, which now appeared as an abyss of darkness.

Without warning, Ira reached out and clasped Aashi's hands, her entire being pulsating with energy. In an instant, Aashi lost consciousness within Ira's embrace. Ira carried Aashi back to the mansion and, through the windows, guided her into her room. Ensuring the room was securely locked, she cast a spell that would confine Aashi within its walls should she awaken again.

Ira emerged from the grand mansion, descending gracefully through the air. Exhausted from the recent battle, her weakened state was evident.

She addressed her companions, saying, "She's asleep now. It will be a while before she wakes up. All of you should rest too. I need to replenish my energy; I've used it all today."

Ira glanced at Avi, Arsh, Vani, and Advait and reassured them, "Don't worry about her. She's fine. Don't dwell on it now; go and rest. We'll talk tomorrow. Alice will show you to your rooms."