CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX - THE SKY WEPT RED

Aria's heart pounded as she tore through the compound, her enhanced senses on high alert. The acrid scent of dark magic hung in the air, mixing with the metallic tang of blood. She had to reach Lucas before it was too late. A burly guard stepped into her path, swinging a crackling stun baton. "Stop right there, traitor!" Aria's violet eyes narrowed. In a fluid motion, she ducked under his swing and drove her elbow into his solar plexus. As he doubled over, she brought her knee up, connecting with his chin. "I don't have time for this," she growled, vaulting over his crumpling form. Two more guards rounded the corner, eyes widening at the sight of her. The first raised his weapon, but Aria was already moving. She slid between his legs, using her momentum to sweep him off his feet. As he fell, she snatched his baton mid-air. The second guard hesitated, giving Aria the opening she needed. She lunged forward, jabbing the baton into his ribs. Electricity arced through his body, and he