Thieves at the Villa (5)

Caution: The following content contains scenes of violence and blood. Reader discretion is advised.

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The sword's blade tore through Talon's back, setting his nerves on fire with excruciating torment. He let out a primal scream as he felt the hot blood spilling from his body, barely keeping himself upright as his legs threatened to give out.

'...Stay on your feet,' he commanded his mind, trying to drown out the throbbing in his ears.

The blade in his hand was slick with the crimson life of his foes, who had crossed him. He tightened his grip, feeling the metal bite into his palm. 'I can't… afford to fall now,' he thought.

As the pain seared through his body, Talon felt his balance falter and his vision dim. The fresh wound carved on his back was torturing him mercilessly, but he would not give in to his tormentor.