What is Babel?4

"So, what now?" Viktor rasped, his voice hoarse with a mixture of relief and dread.

Ray, still perched on the sofa, a picture of cool composure despite the scene that had just unfolded, leaned forward. "Now," he said, his voice smooth as velvet, "we solidify the agreement."

A dark contract materialized in his hand, the parchment radiating an unsettling energy. Shadows danced around its edges, hinting at the power it held. Viktor felt a primal fear grip him, but the image of his battered sister steeled his resolve.

"Sign," Ray commanded, his voice leaving no room for argument.

Viktor eyed the contract, the darkness within it warring with the flicker of hope that burned in his chest. "What exactly is the price?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

"Everything," Ray replied, his smile devoid of warmth. "But fear not, Viktor. I have no intention of treating you unfairly. Consider it a partnership, one that will grant you the power you crave."