THE TURNING TIDE

POV: Hardin

As I struck the ground hard, the breath shot out of my lungs in a terrible surge, scattering rubble. With a grunt, Darrel landed next to me and gripped his side. The blood seeped through his fingertips.

I wheezed, trying to pull myself up, "you stubborn fool." "I had it handled."

Through the smoke and dust, Darrel gave me a sideways glare. "You did it like hell. Your skull would have been crushed by that object."

A massive clap shook the chamber as another supporting column was destroyed by one of Callum's monstrosities. Shards of metal and stone, both alive, rained down upon us.

I snarled, "This can't go on," and ducked the deadly debris with my sword. "We're losing ground fast."

"No kidding," with a grumble from Darrel. He favored his damaged side as he battled to get his feet beneath him. "I don't know how much longer we can keep this up."

My gaze swept over the conflict, seeking any opening for our gain. Although the juggernauts were unyielding, they could still be wou