LET THE PAIN IN (2)

Eleanor's head jerked up, her eyes flaming with a sharp golden light. "Get away from him!"

Azrael's expression darkened. "You get away from him, Insect," he sneered, outstretching his hand.

A dark green glow wrapped Eleanor, lifting her off the ground instantly. "What are you...?" she gasped, panic etched on her face.

Ares slowly lifted his head, his eyes haunted by pain and panic. "N...no!" he pleaded.

With a harsh flick of his wrist, Azrael sent Eleanor flying across the room. She crashed into the wall, which shattered instantly. The sound of crumbling debris filled the air, and then silence.

As the dust settled, Azrael smirked, his gaze returning to Ares. But his smile faded.

Ares now stood tall, his eyes twisted into a furious, dead-eyed stare. Jagged fangs gleamed in the dim light, and Nyx, equally furious, coiled around his neck.

Azrael sighed, "Erebus, you—"