Leo reached into his item space, pulling out a glowing strength enhancer and an endurance core, their vials shining in the dim forest light. He drank both quickly, the liquid burning down his throat.
[Strength points boosted for 10 minutes.]
[Endurance points boosted for 10 minutes.]
The pack of ten cultists got closer to him. Leo's crimson eyes blazed, but blood trickled from the shallow cut on his shoulder.
"Guard Rin, Nimbus," he commanded. With a low growl rumbling in his chest, the panther padded back to Rin and circled her in a protective manner, his purple eyes fixed on the cultists.
Leo looked into Rin's pink, tear-streaked eyes. With a firm but subdued promise, he said, "Stay right there."
"You won't be touched by anyone again."
With a shaky but defiant voice, Rin stepped forward. "Leon—"
"No," he interrupted, his words piercing with remorse and rage. "I let them get too close once. They have to learn their consequences"
