The sky above the Shadowlands border grew darker.
Not because of night.
But because something was blocking the light itself.
The thin mist that had only swirled earlier was now thickening.
Moving slowly.
As if alive.
And in the middle of it.
Three figures stood.
The same red creature as before was at the front.
Its body was tall, red cracks across its skin glowing like flowing lava.
It was not alone.
Two other figures stood behind it.
Slimmer.
Calmer.
But their auras… were no less deadly.
Aurelia stepped forward.
Golden light blazed in her eyes.
The Blood Pact bond within her pulsed.
But this time.
It was not a warning.
But a state of readiness.
"You learn quickly…"
The red creature repeated its words, its voice deep and echoing.
"Interesting."
Ragnar immediately took a step forward.
His grin was wide.
"Too much talking."
He clenched his fist.
"Let's see how strong you really are."
Kael let out a slow breath.
"Always straight to the point."
