"It's over, Asher," Elara declared, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her. "Your treachery has been exposed, and you will pay for your crimes."

Asher's lips curled into a snarl. "You think you've won? This is far from over, Elara. I will not let you take what is rightfully mine."

"You forfeited your right when you betrayed her," Damien growled, stepping forward. "Your reign of terror ends here."

Asher's eyes narrowed, and he lunged forward, his claws extended. Damien braced himself, but before Asher could strike, Seraphina intervened, her blade flashing in the dim light.

"Enough!" she cried, her blade pressing against Asher's throat. "Surrender, or face the consequences."...