Chase

Before she could argue, Asher suddenly shifted midair, his eyes narrowing as he sensed movement below.

Several figures in dark robes were moving rapidly across the terrain, riding warped beasts that resembled a grotesque fusion of wolves and lizards. Their bloodshot eyes gleamed in the moonlight, and even from above, Asher could feel their twisted auras.

"They're already here," Serena whispered.

"Hold on tight," Asher said, adjusting his grip on her.

And then—he dove.

Blood-red streaks burned through the air as Asher descended at breakneck speed, twisting to avoid incoming projectiles. Spears of black energy shot past them, crackling with unholy power.

"These guys don't waste time," Serena muttered, drawing one of her daggers.

"Neither do I," Asher replied.

At the last second, he twisted his body, flipping in midair before extending his blood-forged wings wide. A storm of crimson blades rained down on the pursuers below.