The cavern groaned under the weight of power. Crimson light from Kael’s bracers flickered weakly against the golden aura radiating from Varis and the cold, ancient energy that seeped from the masked stranger.
Kael forced his eyes open. His body screamed, every muscle torn from the clash with Varis, but he couldn’t look away. Two monsters now stood between him and survival.
“An investment?” Varis’s voice was sharp, edged with disdain. “Since when does a carrion-feeder like you meddle in mortal affairs?”
The masked man chuckled, tilting his spear. “Since you forgot the rules, Varis. The heavens claim dominion, but even gods know better than to kill their game too soon.”
A spark of recognition lit Kael’s battered mind. That voice carried weight, a rhythm like a forgotten prophecy. Whoever
