---
The radiant ring appeared again, larger this time, ancient sigils moving across its surface. The darts hit. And vanished.
Sofia's eyes widened.
That was all the opening Seraphiel needed. She stepped through the fading red mist and struck Sofia across the face.
Then again across the ribs.
Then once to the stomach with enough precision to fold the half-god vampire over without wasting even a breath.
Sofia staggered, fury breaking through her perfect smile at last.
At the same time Natasha tried to break Elena through brute force.
Her claws lengthened, blood pressure condensing around them until each hand looked like it carried a cluster of crimson blades. She lunged with a feral snarl, aiming to tear Elena apart in one decisive exchange.
Elena planted her feet.
Natasha's first slash met Elena's forearm guard.
The second met Elena's shoulder turn.
The third almost slipped through—
Elena's elbow crashed into Natasha's ribs.
Natasha gasped.
