---
Alisha stepped forward, her hands readied to cast. "Should we fight them?"
Jack's jaw tightened as his eyes scanned the horizon.
Dust clouds rose like ghostly banners, signaling the rapid approach of their pursuers.
He weighed the odds in silence before finally responding.
"Looks like we don't have much of a choice."
Gale's brows furrowed as he heard Jack's words.
"I don't think that's wise." His voice carried a tone of grim certainty.
"Those demons—" He hesitated, his frown deepening. "They're not ordinary."
Jack's gaze snapped to Gale, alarm flashing in his eyes.
"You've encountered them before?" he asked, his tone sharper now.
Gale nodded slightly. "Yes. And the fact that they're still alive isn't good news for us."
A chill ran down Jack's spine.
