His aura flared with a new intensity. Now not just wings, but a crown—one forged of glistening bloodlight and soulflame—appeared behind his head. His dominion now reached even into their opponents' blood.
He reached out—and the Maw froze.
Its veins boiled under his will. The blood of everything it had consumed became a liability. It twisted against the chains. It howled.
"Sovereigns don't hide in cages," Asher growled.
He descended—scythe in both hands.
And struck.
The blow split the Maw of Chains from shoulder to hip—not killing it instantly, but tearing loose the essence that held its soul bound. A surge of screaming spirits erupted from the mouth in its chest, flooding the cavern with ghostly wind.
The Disciples shrieked. One tried to flee, but Valeris simply said, "No."
The word was all it took. His body froze in mid-teleport. His head separated from his body an instant later.
Asher turned, scythe dripping bloodlight, breath steady.
More were coming.
