Adam didn't control fire, lightning, or illusions. His magic controlled places—nine cursed, ruined regions scattered across the continent, each one sealed off by nature itself.
With a flick of his hand, Adam could open short-lived portals to these broken lands and let their dangers flood into the battlefield. His magic was rare, unstable, and extremely dangerous.
Each portal led to a different deadly realm—ones that could only be reached after years of study, forbidden rituals, and the cost of blood. Binding even one took a lifetime. Adam had bound nine.
That was why every mage feared his magic style.
The Ninefold Gates of Abyss.
..
The moon was low and full, casting cold silver light over an endless desert. Two figures stood far apart on cracked dunes.
Amore—barefoot, wild-eyed, her white dress soaked in sweat and dirt. Her chest rose and fell with deep, heavy breaths. Her rage burned hotter than fire.
