Chapter 56 — Betrayal Within
The Obsidian Throne had never felt more fragile.
Liora remained in the ritual chamber for nearly two full days after Korthrax's mental intrusion, refusing to leave despite the healers' protests. Her body ached with exhaustion. Dried blood still crusted her nose and the corners of her mouth. Yet she continued feeding power into the stabilization array, determined to hold the containment net against the Devourer's growing influence.
Cairis had returned from the northern frontlines bloodied but victorious, having crushed a major riftspawn incursion. He rarely left her side now, dividing his attention between commanding the war effort and watching over her like a shadow.
The soul bond between them felt heavier than usual — laced with shared exhaustion, fierce protectiveness, and an undercurrent of fear.
