In that split second after Ivan made up his mind, he initiated a push and pull between the mana within him and the ambient mana in the atmosphere. The process was agonizing. His veins felt like they were on fire, every inch of his body screaming in protest. He wasn't proficient in magic, he barely understood tye concept, yet he grit his teeth and forced the process, sweat dripping down his face.
The snarls grew louder, more frenzied. The shades were losing patience, their hunger pushing them into action. Ivan could feel their energy, the oppressive weight of the darkness pressing in. He knew that they wouldn't wait much longer.
A soft growl sounded closer than ever, and Ivan's heart raced. The first shade had finally snapped, giving in to its ravenous instincts. It lunged at him, its dim, ghostly eyes gleaming viciously, the swirling shadows around its body shifting and twisting as it bounded forward with terrifying speed.
