Kael and Darius sprinted toward the figures blocking the exit. The moonlight behind them cast the stranger in an eerie silhouette, but the weapon in their hand pulsed with unmistakable power.
Darius struck first, his blade flashing as he swung at the figure's side. But the stranger was fast, too fast. They twisted, dodging with an almost inhuman grace before slamming a boot into Darius's chest. He stumbled back with a grunt.
Kael didn't wait. He lunged forward, ducking under the stranger's counterattack and aiming a punch at their ribs. His fist connected, and the impact sent the figure staggering.
"Not so untouchable now, are you?" Kael taunted.
The figure straightened, tilting their head as if amused. "You still don't understand what you're up against."
Then they moved.
Faster than Kael could react, the stranger was on him. A powerful kick to his knee sent him off balance, and before he could recover, a cold hand wrapped around his throat.
