The real Jared blurred behind him. The Demon Flogger coiled around Varek’s throat. “Down!” Jared snarled, yanking hard. Vertebrae popped; numb heat raced through Varek’s neck while righteous energy from the whip burrowed into his meridians like acid fire.

“Now!” Jared’s eyes flashed. He bailed his left hand and slammed every ounce of strength into Varek’s spine.

Boom! The impact rocked the hall. Varek convulsed, coughing a jet of obsidian blood. From the side gallery Kishor nodded, admiration bright in his heavy features. Jared’s control, his timing, already eclipsed most early Earthly immortals.

Humiliated, Varek abandoned defense. Black demonic aura erupted, cloaking in viscous night. Only two crimson eyes burned inside the storm.

“Whelp, I’ll erase your soul!” From the fog burst a tide of onyx claws, Almighty Soul Devourer. Each talon promised to tear flesh and drag spirit screaming into oblivion.

Jared’s smile faltered. He could feel the abyssal power in those claws and knew a direct clash meant certain ruin.

Jared’s eyes flashed.