Charles's body continued writhing.
The Phantasm Beast parts erupted further, not replacing his human parts but layering over them in grotesque fusion. Autumn Deer antlers grew longer, while Tonothus' horn sprouted from his left temple.
Cheronos claws replaced fingernails on the right hand.
Bone Wyvern plating covered portions of his torso in overlapping segments. Each part moved independently, suggesting multiple consciousnesses inhabiting a single frame.
Reinhard stared with shock, breaking through combat focus. His light blue eyes tracked each mutation, cataloging impossible biology displayed before him. His voice emerged strained, carrying disbelief mixed with horror.
"What happened to your body?"
Charles stood amid the mutations. His black mask remained featureless, revealing nothing of expression beneath. But his posture shifted, shoulders sagging slightly, suggesting the weight of confession about to be delivered.
