HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE

After the initial shock wore off, Alessia tightened her grip on Janice, who groaned as a series of unwanted thoughts enveloped her upon contact. Biting her lower lip, she focused her eyes on the creature.

"I have no idea," Janice replied unsteadily, trying to keep the fear out of her voice, though she doubted it went unnoticed. "But I hope we don't get eaten by them."

Janice intended it as a joke, but Alessia's eyes narrowed as she took it to heart. "Let's get the hell out of here," Alessia exclaimed, and Janice nodded in agreement.

However, before they could make their escape, the beasts merged in an instant, united in their cause, and pounced upon them without hesitation. Janice's voice caught in her throat as she was lifted off the ground.

"Stop!" Alessia's scream pierced the air, and Janice's eyes widened in response.

They were firmly trapped within the creature's grip, tossed about in the air. Janice groaned, feeling her stomach churn and vomit surge up her throat. She attempted