Theras's wings folded behind him as he descended, his feet touching the stone floor with a softness that stood in stark contrast to the force that had thrown him back only moments ago.
The runes around the chamber dimmed gradually, their purpose fulfilled, leaving behind only the lingering tension that filled the space. He did not look at me. His full attention remained fixed on the figure standing at my side, his gaze steady and unblinking, as though he were confirming something he had not believed possible.
For several moments, he said nothing.
"Who are you?" he asked at last.
His voice was calm but I could feel a tension beneath it.
The shadow did not answer immediately. It remained motionless, its form still composed entirely of darkness, absorbing the faint ambient light without reflection. Then, slowly, it raised its hand and placed it against its own chest.
The surface of its form fractured.
