Aurora POV

The darkness hit our barrier like a physical blow.

Gray and I held our ground, our combined power pushing back against Malachar's attack. Silver and crimson light blazed around us, forming a shield.

But the darkness kept coming. Wave after wave. Relentless.

"He's too strong," Gray said through gritted teeth. "We can't hold this forever."

I could feel it too. My energy was draining fast. My muscles shook from the strain.

Malachar watched us struggle. His silver eyes showed no emotion. ...