A wave of intense heat washed over Dylan for a moment. Even the biting chill of the night seemed to vanish, swept away by the burning echo of the energy he had just absorbed. His breath slowed, and his heart beat heavier, deeper — as if syncing with the rhythm of an older world.
Then it all faded.
The warmth receded gradually, leaving behind a soft, almost pleasant fatigue. Now that the spiritual essence of the anima gem had been purified, Dylan finally opened his eyes.
Right beside him, Élisa was already there, sitting in the same position, looking peaceful. She had clearly finished before him — and she made sure he knew it, without even speaking.
A slight, calm smile tugged at her lips. The firelight danced in her golden eyes, giving them an almost supernatural glow.
"You're much slower than me, I see," she said gently, not mocking, but with that usual glint of mischief.
Dylan sighed, rubbing his still-warm face with one hand.
