Chapter Twelve: Into the Darkness
The rogue beasts snarled, shadows twisting around their limbs like living smoke. Their eyes glowed with unnatural fire, and their movements were erratic, filled with malice.
Kael stepped forward, muscles tensed like a coiled spring. His voice boomed across the clearing. "This ends now."
Rina's heart pounded in her chest. She could feel the bond thrumming between them—stronger than ever. Her hands tingled, a warmth spreading through her fingertips.
Without hesitation, she closed the distance between herself and Kael. "I'm with you."
Kael's gaze softened, pride shining through the fierce determination. "Then fight with me."
The pack surged forward, a wave of snarling, howling power. Rina felt the wild energy course through her veins, awakening every fiber of her being.
A rogue beast lunged at her. She barely had time to react before a burst of strength propelled her to the side, claws raking the air where the creature had been.
She growled, a deep, guttural sound that surprised even herself. Her body shifted—not fully, but enough. Her senses sharpened; the world slowed.
Kael fought fiercely beside her, his golden eyes never leaving hers. They moved in perfect synchronicity—two halves of a whole.
The battle raged on, but Rina knew this was only the beginning. The darkness was closing in.
And together, they would fight to protect everything they loved.