The air in the chamber was vibrating. It wasn't sound; it was pure, condensed magical pressure that made everyone's teeth ache.
Vali—or the thing wearing Vali's face—sat on the Throne of Shadows. His crimson eyes swept over the group, but there was no recognition. No warmth. Just a cold, predatory hunger.
"Excellent," the Boss purred, stepping forward. "Do you see, Lady Primrose? He isn't just a vessel. He is the Void incarnate."
He turned to the boy on the throne.
"Vali," the Boss commanded. "Show them. Eliminate the intruders."
The boy tilted his head. He looked at Rurik, who was standing frozen, his face a mask of heartbreak.
"Eliminate?" the boy echoed. His voice was wrong. It sounded like two stones grinding together. "Yes. Eliminate. Feed."
He raised a hand. Black spikes of Void energy erupted from the floor, aiming straight for Rurik's chest.
"MOVE!" Konrad roared.
