The blade pressed against my neck felt like ice, sending a shiver down my spine. The monster's eyes, glowing with a terrifying mix of rage and triumph, locked onto mine. For a moment, time seemed to stretch, every heartbeat thunderous in my ears. I could hear Seraphina's desperate cry, but it was drowned out by the pounding of my own fear.
But I wasn't ready to give up not now, not ever.
My mind raced, searching for an escape. My hands, trembling slightly, began to summon the wind, but the monster was faster. With a vicious snarl, he grabbed my wrists, pinning them to my sides. The knife pressed harder, drawing a thin line of blood. The pain was sharp, a cruel reminder of my predicament.
"Seraphina!" I managed to gasp, trying to catch her attention.
But before she could act, the monster's voice slithered through the air, low and mocking. "Your magic won't save you this time, little wind witch."
