Ace's POV
The enchanted chain whirled through the air between us, its blackened links pulsing with an eerie violet glow. The metallic tang of dark magic stung my nostrils, mixing with the coppery scent of blood and sweat hanging heavy in the clearing. My hackles rose as the bandit alpha's claws flexed around the weapon's handle, his knuckles cracking with the movement.
"You really think that toy's gonna stop me?" The growl rumbled up from my chest, vibrating through my fangs. Every muscle in my body tightened, ready to spring.
The alpha's laughter rolled through the trees like distant thunder. "You're just a whelp playing at being alpha." His yellowed fangs glistened with saliva. "I'll snap your spine before moonhigh."
