Chapter 408: Pursuit in Astellian Capital
Lyan stood still before the captured figure bound in roots, his mind calculating the next step. He heard the hurried footsteps in the distance, and the distinct presence of someone fleeing — the leader, undoubtedly. The figure was moving fast, and Lyan could tell they were attempting to escape beyond reach. A small smile tugged at his lips, and he closed his eyes, focusing inwardly. He reached out to the spirit within him.
(Griselda, I’m borrowing your strength.)
The air around Lyan began to crackle, tiny sparks of electricity forming in the space between his fingers. A surge of lightning enveloped his body, blue streaks wrapping around his limbs and dancing over his skin. His hair rose slightly from the electric charge, and he felt his senses heighten. He could feel Griselda’s fierce spirit igniting within him, and her voice, sharp and confident, filled his mind.
(Don’t let the bastard go, Lyan!) (Griselda)
He smirked at her enthusiasm, letting the lightning flow into his legs, surging energy into his muscles. It was as if the world had slowed down around him, each second expanding as the lightning urged him to move. Without a second thought, Lyan dashed forward, his body a blur against the dark of the night.
The wind howled in his ears, the courtyard quickly disappearing behind him. Lyan could see the silhouette of the black-cloaked figure darting across the street, moving at an incredible speed. He squinted, noting the way the figure’s feet barely touched the ground—an artifact, he realized, recognizing the gusts of magical wind that seemed to propel the figure forward. They seemed to almost glide, the cloak billowing as they sped up. Lyan gritted his teeth, feeling a familiar sense of challenge rising within him.
The thrill of the hunt, amplified by the electricity coursing through his veins, drove him forward. He leaned into the wind, allowing the lightning in his legs to boost him further. His steps became flashes across the cobblestone path, the energy beneath his feet creating small arcs with each stride.
(Come on, Lyan, faster! You’re lightning itself now, don’t let some amateur with fancy boots outrun you!) (Griselda)
Griselda’s voice urged him on, the fierce excitement evident in her tone. Lyan focused on the target, narrowing his eyes as he pushed himself harder. He could feel the strain on his muscles, but it was a distant sensation, drowned out by the raw energy of the lightning. The cloaked figure glanced back, their eyes widening as they saw Lyan gaining on them, each stride eating up the distance between them.