The battlefield that had tasted victory only moments ago now writhed in terror. The river boiled, its once silver currents turned to black sludge that pulsed with unnatural life. From its depths, the shadow’s hulking form climbed higher, dripping water that hissed like acid when it touched the ground.
Zaria stood rooted, her breath ragged, every instinct screaming at her to retreat. Yet her body refused. She could not. She would not. Behind her were her warriors, the remnants of her people, all looking to her with wide, fearful eyes. If she faltered, they would break.
Damian moved closer, his blade steady even as his expression hardened. “This is no rogue beast,” he said quietly, his eyes narrowing on the monster. “This is something ancient. Something that should never have crossed into
