With a swift backhand, Yegor unleashed a massive palm of righteous energy, forcing Crew—who had been charging toward the ancient god formation—to retreat. In the same motion, he pivoted aside, narrowly dodging Allie’s incoming strike.

But the moment he saw her redirect toward the formation, his expression hardened. He reached out, seized her left arm, and hurled her back with full force. The air split with a sharp whoosh as Allie was flung away once again.

“Damn it!” she snapped, regaining her balance midair, fury flashing across her face. “Do you really think I wouldn’t kill you?”

Before the words had even settled, she surged forward again. A blood-red longsword materialized in her hand, its edge aimed straight for Yegor’s throat.

Clang.

Yegor caught the blade between two fingers. In the next instant, his backhand struck her shoulder with a heavy blow. The impact rang out—but to his surprise, it left her unharmed.

Allie paused, momentarily stunned, as if something had just clicked. A mocking smile curved her lips. Then she drove a punch into Yegor, sending him flying.