The soldier trying to choke the life out of her failed to see Derek shoot up from the entrance and wrap around one of the other soldiers, crushing him easily as he spat his venom in the eyes of the other.
"Echidna!" The guard dropped Raven and scrambled away.
He tried to defend himself, the knife scraped against his chest armor and he smacked her hard across the face. Derek shot out and wrapped his tail around his neck tightly.
"Shall I take his life or do you wish to have the pleasure?"
"I came as quickly as I could when I heard your scream.." He muttered, "I'm so glad you're alright...the soldiers are fleeing. If the emporer has any value of his men, he will not send more."
The town was still in mourning, but her words brought them comfort. They would no longer be as peaceful as they once were, but they would be ready next time.
Derek cleaned the temple for Raven and the Oracles, they needn't aee any more death he had said. After clean up, they held a massive party to celebrate those who would be missed and their victory over the soldiers.
Derek laid loosely wrapped around Raven, only desiring her attention this time. He ran his long nails gently over her arms and shoulders, petting her slowly as he drank.