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The softness in his face vanished, replaced by something darker. His lips curled back, and his eyes burned with fury.

“So be it,” he snarled.

A blast of power surged from him, like an invisible force slamming into me. I staggered back, barely managing to stay on my feet. My pulse pounded in my ears, but I didn’t look away. I wouldn’t give him that satisfaction.

Behind him, the chaos reignited. Shifters and rogue vampires swarmed the townspeople, their cries echoing through the crypt. I caught glimpses of Lucas, bloodied but still fighting, with his blade flashing as he cut down another attacker.

My chest ached at the sight of him. I needed to get to him, but Aurelius stepped closer, blocking my view.

“You’re strong,” Aurelius said, his voice a low purr. “But not strong enough.”

His words sent ice down my spine, but I refused to show fear. “You’re wrong.”

He laughed, sharp and mocking. “Am I? Then prove it.”

I braced myself as he lunged.

His speed was terrifying. One moment he stood several feet away; the next, he was right in front of me. I barely managed to dodge his grasp, stumbling to the side. My heart raced, but I forced myself to focus.

I wouldn’t win this fight with strength. I had to use what I’d been given… what I was.

I reached for the magic inside me, the ancient power Rowena had helped me unlock. It stirred, sluggish and heavy, but I pushed harder.

Aurelius lunged again, and this time, I didn’t run. I stood my ground and thrust my hands out.

A surge of energy exploded from my palms, slamming into his chest. He staggered back, a look of surprise flashing across his face.

I didn’t give him time to recover. I called the magic again, pouring every ounce of strength into the attack. Light erupted from my hands, bright and searing, and Aurelius roared as it hit him.

But it wasn’t enough.

He fought through it, stepping closer, his eyes blazing. I felt my strength waver, my knees trembling.

“Do you feel it yet?” he hissed. “How your power drains you? You can’t win.”

I gritted my teeth, pushing harder even as my vision blurred. “I won’t stop.”

He smirked. “You don’t have to.”

Before I could react, he raised his hand and suddenly, I couldn’t move.

An invisible force pinned me in place, and my magic flickered out.

“No,” I gasped, struggling against the hold, but it was useless.

Aurelius stepped closer, his gaze devouring me. “You should’ve accepted my offer.”

Panic rose in my chest. I thrashed, but it was like being trapped in stone.

“Let her go!”

Lucas’s voice cut through the chaos.

Aurelius turned, and I caught a glimpse of Lucas as he charged.

“No!” I screamed, but it was too late.

Aurelius moved faster than I could see, and Lucas was suddenly on the ground, groaning in pain.