Apnoch opened his mouth to respond—but Damien's hand shot out, blocking him.
"Don't," Damien said quietly.
Apnoch froze. "What—"
Before he could finish, Damien moved. " They're fake!"
A burst of magic essence erupted beneath his boots, launching him forward like a streak of lightning. His blade cleared its sheath in a single fluid motion, slicing through the air toward the taller guard.
The man barely had time to react. His shield flared red, demonic essence bleeding through its cracks as Damien's strike split it apart. Sparks danced through the tunnel.
The second guard shouted, raising his spear, but Apnoch was already in motion, instinct driving him to draw and block.
Bang!
Clang!
Steel rang against steel, the sound sharp and raw in the enclosed space where they fought.
