DEREK JAEGER

t help but sense the air around him, instantly perceiving the dense and foul atmosphere that filled every nook and cranny. The putrid and intense presence that permeate

teetering on the edge of instability, had begun releasing fragments of the evil it held captive. If left unchecked, it would un

The girl, undeterred by the eerie surroundings, bravely followed in his footsteps. Together, they advanced towar

me to lead the way," she offered, taking the lead with a sense of purpose. With each step they took, the torches lining the ha

something had opened it before their arrival. Lilian couldn't help but feel a surge of surprise and uncertainty. Who could have released Hild

d twisted metal hinted at a powerful force that had bent them forcefully, as though someone had exerted immense strength to gain access. The realization da

r, Lilian implored, her voic

to remain silent. With a sense of urgency, he retrieved a cross necklace from beneath his garment, clutching it tightly within his hand. In a hushed voice, he began reciting a prayer, his

the silence, his words tinged with urgency. "Illuminate the surroundings!" he commanded, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and determination. Over

glow that pierced throu

she desperately called out Hilde's name, her voice quivering with a mixture of hope and fear. Her gaze darted around, searching for any sign of him emerging from the shadows. The evil that saturated the air only heightened her anxiety, ca

e of desperation. With each passing second, her anticipation gr

s face, devoid of any expression. But as she moved closer, a sense of unease settled within her. Something was off, and her

gnition or warmth in his gaze. Instead, she was met with a contemptuous stare that sent a shiver down her spine, instinctively warning her of the dan

It was as if time itself had warped to accommodate its malevolent presence. Panic surged through her veins, causing her heart to r

ping for breath, Lilian desperately fought against the vice-like hold, her struggles growing more feeble with each passing mome

et the eyes of her assailant. Through the cold, merciless gaze, she caught a glimpse of the

h the thick silence like a beacon of hope. A powerful blow struck the entity, the force of Derek's concealed rod shattering upon impact. The sound re

fferent direction, prompting him to urge Lilian to stay behind while he ventured alone. Deep down, he knew there was something off about th

way to protect Lilian and overcome this formidable adversary. His hand fumbled in his pocket, retrieving a small bottle he had prepared for such dire circumsta

a blur of movement. Without warning, it seized him by his garment, propelling him into the air and sending him crashing into a nearby wa

astonishment. He chuckled softly, appreciating her concern while collecting his thoughts. The reality of the situati

throat, cutting off his air supply and draining his life force with each passing second. Yet, amidst the suffocating darkness, a sudden burst of bright light erupte

anating from her palms. She couldn't help but feel a sense of disbelief towards the self-proclaimed priest, who had faltered in the face of the spi

his footing, he cautiously moved closer to Lilian, keeping a watchful eye on the retreating beast. In that mo

el the drain of her magical energy, leaving her weak and vulnerable. Doubt crept int

n Lilian's shoulder. In that touch, she felt a surge of revitalizing energy flow through her, rekindling

r energy restored, Lilian witnessed Derek's swift movement, propelled by a speed she had never seen before. Instinct guided he

unyielding strength pinning him in place. Another surge of brilliant light energy enveloped them, its radiant power propel

upon the cold floor. Overwhelmed with a mix of relief and regret, tears welled up in her eyes, stream

mpassion. In that moment, she hoped that the darkness that had held him ca

embraced him and sl