The gigantic wolf advanced slowly toward Isabella, its deafening roar reverberating through the frozen chamber like thunder trapped underground.
Jagged fangs dripped with saliva that froze mid-drip into icy spikes. Behind it, the monster hordes followed in lockstep—twisted beasts slinking low, eyes glowing with unnatural obedience, all heeding Jordan's command without hesitation.
Isabella balanced herself precariously, clutching her sword tightly in her blood-slicked grasp.
Her legs trembled beneath her, muscles screaming in protest after being pushed far beyond their natural limits, but her knuckles whitened around the hilt.
A thin stream of crimson slid down her wrist and dripped from her elbow, tapping softly against the shattered stone below.
Each breath she drew felt heavier than the last, her lungs burning as icy air scraped down her throat.
