Perez watched Mari fall and Espada bend to catch her, a sly, evil grin splitting the villain's face. He couldn't materialize, couldn't save her, couldn't do a damn thing to keep her safe because he was bound by the restrictions Ohni set forth. If he interfered with her plan, he would fail his task, and he would never be free of his curse.
He could only float there, incorporeal, nursing his rapidly dwindling powers just to remain outside the vessel. Even now, the call of the watch was strong, compelling him to return and to wither inside its dark, echoing depths. He knew if he gave in, he would fail. If he helped Mari, he would fail. If he killed Espada, he would fail.
He wanted to roar in frustration; there had to be something he could do-