Chapter 35. The Flame of Darkness

  Screams and the clash of metal tore through the air as the fierce battle erupted. The slavers, realizing they couldn’t simply flee, grabbed their weapons, but their plans were shattered by the sudden arrival of Zephaar’s servants. Dark figures, cloaked in shadows, moved almost soundlessly—like specters gliding over the ground.

  Leonel fought at the heart of the chaos, dodging blades and daggers. Stan conjured an icy barrier, blocking incoming strikes, while Ethan battled two opponents at once, showcasing his masterful swordsmanship.

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  But the real threat came without warning. One of Zephaar’s servants raised a bow and drew the string. His arrow was no ordinary projectile—it burned with fire laced with dark stains, as if the Darkness itself had awakened within it.

  The arrow shot forward, slicing through the air. Leonel barely had time to turn his head before realizing he wouldn’t be able to dodge in time.

  And then, a shadow flickered before him.

  Beligor.

  He stepped forward, taking the blow. The arrow struck his chest, igniting with a sinister flame. Beligor made no sound, though his body trembled from the impact. He looked at Leonel, and for the first time, something like awareness flickered in his eyes.

  — Why?.. — Leonel breathed out.

  Beligor swayed but did not fall. His fingers clenched before he whispered, barely audible:

  — Because… I don’t want to be a pawn.

  And with those words, he collapsed to the ground.