I hung suspended from the ceiling, iron chains biting into my wrists. Blood trickled down my arms, but I refused to show weakness.
Gage Mcbride circled me like a vulture, his eyes gleaming with sadistic pleasure. "The great Liam Knight," he sneered, "not so powerful now, are you?"
I met his gaze steadily. "If you're trying to intimidate me, you'll need to try harder."
His smile vanished. With a sharp gesture, he activated the formation beneath my feet. The ground glowed with intricate patterns that pulsed with malevolent energy.
"This special formation was designed just for you," Gage said. "Conrad Thornton was very specific about how he wanted you to suffer."
The air around me shimmered as the formation came fully alive. Giant blades of energy materialized, hovering around my suspended body.
"Let's see how tough you really are," Gage whispered.
