CHAPTER SIXTY EIGHT - Dancing With Forgotten Ghosts

They had barely reached the center of the ravine when figures appeared at both ends—Shadow Crest guards, at least a dozen in each direction. "This is where the fun begins," Lilaya murmured, dropping into a fighting stance. The guards approached with disciplined precision, clearly expecting resistance. Lucas signaled to his team, and they formed a defensive circle. "Remember, non-lethal if possible," Lucas reminded them. "No promises," Vulcan replied, eyeing the approaching guards. The first clash was brutal and efficient. Despite the boundary spell dampening their abilities, Lucas and his team had trained together for years. They moved like a single organism, covering each other's weaknesses, exploiting openings. Lucas ducked under a guard's swing, driving his fist into the man's solar plexus. The guard doubled over, and Lucas used the momentum to flip him, rendering him unconscious with a precise strike. "Behind you!" Lilaya called, and Lucas spun to block another attack. The