Chapter 44: Echoes of the Abyss

The moment Ezra opened his eyes, he knew he was in a dream.

He'd gone to bed with Gen in his arms but now he stood, ready for battle in the eye of a desert storm. Sand raged all around him, swirling in chaotic patterns under the sky.

Red lightning flashed and thunder rumbled overhead, casting eerie lights across the storm. The wind howled like a banshee. It was as if he was trapped in a painting where every detail was exaggerated and vivid.

A voice cut through the howling wind, pulling Ezra's attention. "What do you think, Shadrach?" The words echoed around him, spoken with a familiarity that sent shivers down his spine.

Ezra turned to the side and recognized the man standing beside him. The man with golden eyes, the same vampire who he had seen in a vision back when he claimed Valaren.