Their time in the library was cut short when a group of hunters found them. The leader, a man named Kael, was unlike any enemy they'd faced.
"You've been a thorn in our side for too long," Kael said, leveling his sword at Aragos.
"Get in line," Aragos replied, his tone icy.
The fight was brutal. Alysia, though inexperienced, held her own, her magic crackling with newfound strength. But it wasn't enough.
Kael captured her, using her as bait to draw Aragos out.
"You care for her more than you admit," Kael taunted.
Aragos's golden eyes burned with fury. "Let her go."