Kane's fingers fumbled with his shirt buttons, heart hammering against his ribs.
The karmic seal remained etched into his skin—but changed. Where it burned an angry red, it now pulsed with gentle silver light.
Cyrus mirrored the gesture, revealing his own transformed mark. Crimson threads wove through the original design.
"It's still there," Kane breathed, surprised by the relief flooding through him.
"But different," Cyrus murmured, touching the mark.
Father Thomas smiled knowingly as he lifted the Midnight Chalice from the altar.
The morning light shifted, casting rainbow patterns across the altar. "The ritual is complete; you may take the chalice."
"Thank you." Cyrus accepted the ornate box from Father Thomas, cradling it with care.
Father Thomas inclined his head. "The chalice chose its path, as did you both."
Kane bounced on his heels, amber eyes bright with anticipation.
