The Hollow Resonator's second note reached them from every direction.
Martin kept the Breakwater Aegis raised, but the sound curved around its edges. Pressure closed in on his ribs, jaw, and the backs of his knees. Behind him, Elisebeth staggered without falling.
Kinnami's barriers bent inward around the party. Katherine held her tome open with both hands while golden light streamed from its pages into the trembling protection.
"It's wrapping around the shield. Spread out!" Martin shouted.
Rias pressed one hand against her ear and pointed at the silver rings. "Try bending one."
The black core rang again.
Martin summoned the Galehook Trident back into his hand and threw it through one of the silver rings surrounding the core. Cast the Line marked the hit and accelerated his pursuit.
Martin reached the core and ripped the trident sideways.
The ring bent. The note shifted with it, losing enough symmetry for the pressure around the others to weaken.
"Now!"
Everyone spread.
