Within the grip of the soul binder, I could feel Luke: his aura, his warmth pulsing within me like a second heartbeat. Not like the primordial mark, but more intimate, while also less complete. I could feel where he was even without opening my eyes, feel the fire he felt for me, yet none of his thoughts, memories, or intentions. There was no communication or soul speak, just...him.
It was so comforting that, for a moment, I forgot the storm of mana, the grip of the soulbinder, and the terror that seized me. None of it mattered anymore, and I snuggled against him, breathing in his scent. My tail curled around his leg, and I nuzzled his chest, trying to get him to stroke my hair. As much as I hated to admit it, I loved it when he did that.
"Xiviyah...are you alright?" Luke asked.
