Sophia's POV

The cold, dark energy radiating from the Red Wild filled the corridor. He stood there, his presence alone causing the air to vibrate with malice. My body was weak, barely able to move after delivering my daughter, yet instinct and fear gripped my heart. I pulled my baby closer to my chest, shielding her from the threat in front of us.

Emma was trembling, her eyes wide with fear. Almond, still locked in battle with the other attacker, hadn't yet realized the real danger had arrived.

The Red Wild took a slow step forward, his eyes never leaving mine. "You thought you could escape me, Sophia?" His voice...