The air grew heavier.
A shadow oozed down the shrine walls like smoke then folded in on itself, slowly shaping into a tall figure. Human… but wrong. Beautiful… but terrifying.
The Sovereign.
His face was hidden—a shifting mask of darkness—but his eyes glowed faintly like dying stars.
Eren stepped protectively in front of Raya, blade raised.
The Sovereign didn't look at him.
He looked only at her.
Little flame…
His voice was velvet and knives.
You called. I answered.
Raya shook her head.
"I didn't call you!"
But you burned, he whispered.
And your flame is mine.
Raya felt the pull again—deep, irresistible. Her feet moved forward.
"Raya, NO!"
Eren grabbed her, yanking her back. Her mark burned violently.
Lyren struck the ground with his staff.
"Shadow! Back to your realm!"
Blinding white light burst outward, slicing through the Sovereign's form. He hissed, shadows tearing apart until his figure collapsed into smoke—
Then vanished entirely.
Raya collapsed, gasping.
Eren held her tightly.
"I've got you. Stay with me."
Her voice was a whisper.
"He's getting stronger."
Lyren's expression was grave.
"No… your bond is getting weaker. That's why he pushes harder."
Raya shivered.
"What happens if the bond breaks?"
Lyren lowered his head.
"If it breaks…
he won't need to come for you."
Raya's eyes widened.
"He will take you from the inside."