"And you. Don't forget. You used a forbidden skill to bind your soul. Don't even think about interfering with Ridan or that human's path."
Syaria flinched, shrinking back slightly.
"You both know how…" His eyes slid briefly to the side, the faintest shadow crossing his face. "…how that scary woman will react if you overstep."
Syaria shivered, her small form trembling as she glanced down at the ground.
"Y…yes… I know," she whispered.
"Good." The older man's voice stayed calm but carried a cold edge. "You know what she's capable of. If she wants, she can send your soul to the afterlife in an instant. You don't want that, do you?"
"Eeek!!" Syaria squeaked, darting forward to cling tightly to Ridan. "I don't want to!"
"Good." The older man nodded slightly.
"Then listen carefully. After this, you will part with him." His eyes shifted to Ridan for a moment before returning to Syaria.
