Chapter 52: Blood Price (+18)

Author's Note: The following scene contains elements of torture and may be discomforting to some readers. Please proceed with caution.

Ace's POV

My gaze snapped to Aldrin. His jaw clenched, eyes glassy with suppressed pain—likely from broken ribs. He flinched when our eyes met, breath hitching as if even breathing hurt. 

Kilo snarled from his chair, defiance sharpening his voice. "You pieces of shit! What're you planning to do with us?"

Ray's fist cracked against Kilo's cheekbone. The force sent him and the chair skidding sideways, magic chains rattling as they held him bound. Blood sprayed from Kilo's split lip, splattering the stone floor. His chest heaved, but he choked back any cry. 

"Kilo!" Mush's voice trembled, weak and frayed. His face was ashen, either from blood loss or the magic chains sapping his strength.