Chapter 154: Not giving up

Asher's heart dropped as he saw Evelina fall to her knees, blood trickling down her temple from the blow. Rage surged through him, a fire igniting within as he steadied himself, ignoring his own exhaustion. He reached out, catching her before she fully collapsed, his hand cradling her face. Her eyes fluttered, but her fierce determination was still visible, even through the pain.

"Evelina, stay with me," he whispered, trying to keep his voice steady despite the fear tightening his throat.

The commander let out a menacing laugh, stepping closer with his weapon raised, blood from his wounded eye staining his armor. "Fools. You thought you could interfere with my plans and live?" he sneered, looming over them like a dark storm.

Asher's grip on Evelina tightened, his jaw clenching as he shifted to shield her with his own body. His eyes met the commander's, defiant. "You'll regret laying a hand on her," he spat, his voice low and deadly.