Kyle's breath came in short, ragged gasps as the vines coiled tighter around his body.
Each exhale burned like fire in his lungs.
The crushing pressure of the spider lilies' grip making his ribs creak. Sweat dripped down his temples, stinging his eyes as he struggled against the unnatural bindings.
His fingers twitched around Zalrielle's hilt. The familiar weight of his sword cold against his palm, but useless.
His arms were pinned to his sides. The vines squeezing tighter with every weak attempt to break free.
Vesper watched him from just a few paces away, hands tucked casually in the pockets of his long black coat.
His dark eyes gleamed with quiet amusement. His lips curled into a faint smirk. The flowers beneath his boots withered and blackened as if his very presence poisoned the earth.
"Five minutes," Vesper said again, his voice smooth, almost conversational. "Tick-tock, Kyle. Join us... or die here."
Kyle gritted his teeth, forcing himself to breathe through the pain.
