The Last Blood Mage

Cost of Freedom Part One

Gardan's vision began to blur as Xander drained his blood from his neck. Desperate, Gardan struggled to free himself, his hands transforming into talons that tore through Xander's robes, leaving deep cuts on his back. Blood oozed from the wounds.

"Let... me... go..." Gardan mustered all his strength and unleashed a powerful punch that momentarily pushed Xander away. Gardan felt the sharp sting in his neck, the pain making it difficult to stand.

"What the hell are you, freak?!" Gardan roared, his vision growing hazy.

Xander, with bloody fangs and chin, cracked his neck and flicked his wrist. The blood sword materialized in his hands.

"Now you die!" Xander shouted, charging at Gardan with inhuman speed. He was on the brink of beheading Gardan when golden chains suddenly materialized, coiling around Xander's hands.

"Stand down!" Another voice echoed through the room. Several armored soldiers, led by a golden-haired man, stormed into the room.

Xander was stunned by the sudden appearance o