Hutson sprinted through the dense underbrush, his every sense focused on the crimson hand looming above, ready to strike at any moment. He held his breath, timing his next Flash with precision—too early, and Malcolm would simply adjust the attack's trajectory. Too late, and he'd be crushed.
From above, Malcolm observed his prey with mild amusement.
"Not bad. He's faster than I expected."
Lifting his hand, Malcolm traced several glowing runes in the air, his lips moving in a whispered incantation.
"Crimson Bind."
The moment the words left his mouth, a towering wall of blood-red energy erupted before Hutson, sealing his escape route. His eyes darted around—the entire area was now enclosed, trapped beneath a massive scarlet dome.
A chuckle echoed from above.
"Got you, little insect."
Hutson clenched his fists, launching a full-powered punch at the blood wall. The entire barrier shuddered, but it held firm, unyielding beneath the force of his strike.
