The tremors grew stronger, dust cascading from the cracked dome ceiling as the Vessel of the Hollow One floated above the ruined floor.
Her glassy eyes reflected every movement Zephyr made — not blinking, not human.
The possessed Elara's limbs hung as though held by invisible strings. The voice that came from her was layered, male and female, young and ancient, all at once.
> "You came west," it said. "You shouldn't have."
---
[SYSTEM WARNING]
Possession Detected — Target Soul Integrity: 19%
Threat Level: Class Alpha — Vessel of the Hollow One
Skill Seal: 47% (Some combat techniques restricted)
---
Zephyr's grip tightened on Eclipsefang, the obsidian blade humming faintly in protest against the oppressive mana. Behind him, Seraphina forced herself to her knees, blood still glistening on her lip. Zahra, sword ready, stepped forward, eyes burning with stubborn defiance.
"You'll have to go through me first," Zahra growled.
The vessel tilted its head. "I already have."
