The black dragon's molten eyes flickered toward the cluster of flying beasts holding Raven's group aloft.
The creatures, massive and shadow-born, screeched in fear, their wings trembling as the dragon's presence crushed the air itself.
The dragon's grin widened.
"Now," it rumbled, its voice thick with malice, "it's your turn."
Every word dripped with the finality of an executioner's promise.
Selena's eyes flared, her hands trembling despite herself.
"The beasts are too scared to move…" she hissed through gritted teeth.
Clara, quickly assessing the situation, clenched her fists. "W-We gotta jump down from the beasts—"
Before she could complete her words, the dragon's pupils constricted, locking onto them like the gaze of an apex predator.
In that instant, every muscle in their bodies froze. Even breathing felt impossible.
Alex's momentary relief shattered into panic again. "F-Fuck! Why me again?! I'm not even that tasty!"
