The walls of Blood Moon trembled like the heartbeat of a dying beast. Every roar from behind Aldus' sealed chamber rattled the very foundation of the fortress. The thick iron doors — etched with ancient runes and bound by centuries-old spells — groaned as if they were seconds from shattering.
Florita's knees nearly buckled under the weight of the magic she was trying to hold. Her once-bright aura flickered weakly, sweat streaking down her face as she forced every ounce of power she had into the binding circle beneath Aldus' feet. But it wasn't enough.
It's not enough.
His power was monstrous now — Alaric's savage fury fused with Aldus' desperation. Every snarl he unleashed shook the air, every lunge against his restraints echoed like thunder through the halls.
And across the compound, Livia's cries answered his, the pull of their bond defying every barrier and every spell.
