The alley reeked of blood and spell-smoke. Kael tightened his grip on his curved blade as the sorcerer staggered back, silver fire crackling in his palms. The warlock had stolen the serpent idol—a relic worth a king’s ransom—but Kael had been paid to retrieve it.
The wizard hissed a curse. Shadows curled around him, forming talons. Kael lunged, slicing through the air. The warlock twisted aside, but not quickly enough—Kael’s blade bit deep into his side. Snarling, he flung his spell forward. Darkness engulfed Kael, and agony seared his ribs.
Gritting his teeth, Kael forced himself forward. His free hand found the idol, cool and thrumming with ancient power. He ripped it away as his sword drove into the warlock’s heart. The sorcerer fell, coughing blood.
Kael exhaled, shoving the idol into his belt. The job was done. But as he turned, he felt its pulse—alive. Watching. He scowled. Whatever power slumbered inside was far from finished with him.
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