It was difficult to speak properly, his Accilean body rejected the horrific sounds before he could shape them, and the taste they left in his mouth nauseated him. But the effect was exactly what he had intended. Sylph went rigid, screaming in pain. Shryke swore and clawed at his ears. Even the giant Merlyn was doubled over.

“My apologies,” Kestrel said gravely, looking specifically at Sylph.

He waited for the commanders to regain their composure. Shryke’s eyes were especially venomous, but Kestrel knew he wouldn’t be so foolish to counterattack.