Chapter 41 — Clash at the Ashen Pass
Dawn broke bloody over the Ashen Pass.
The narrow volcanic corridor cut through jagged black mountains like a wound in the earth. Rivers of slow-moving lava glowed on either side, filling the air with choking heat and sulfur. This was the only viable route for Vorath's vanguard — and Cairis had chosen it as their first killing field.
Liora rode beside him at the head of their forces, mounted on a shadow-manifested steed that shifted and whispered beneath her. The soul bond thrummed between them like a second heartbeat, sharper now after last night's bloodshed. Every pulse carried echoes of Cairis's cold fury and simmering protectiveness.
"Stay close," he growled, crimson eyes scanning the pass ahead. "The bond will help, but I won't lose you to a lucky holy arrow."
"I'm not the one who needs protecting," she replied, violet energy crackling along her fingertips. A dark smile curved her lips. "Try to keep up, demon prince."
