The cavern echoed with the sickening sound of claws scraping against stone, mingling with Aji’s labored breathing. His sword was slick with whatever passed for blood in these creatures, but the beasts kept coming. Their glowing eyes fixed on him with relentless hunger.
“Xavier!” Aji shouted, barely dodging a strike that could’ve taken his head off. His shoulder was starting to go numb from swinging his blade so much. “Any luck with those grains?”
Xavier’s hands shook as he rifled through the pile of grains. He’d already found three, but every second felt like a race against death. 'Four more. Just four.' He could hear Aji behind him, fighting for his life. The sound of claws slashing through the air sent a cold shiver down Xavier’s spine.
“I’m trying! Hold on, Aji!” Xavier shouted back,
