The Cruelest Act (6)

Darian gritted his teeth, his fingers trembling as he raised both hands toward his mother.

The ethereal chains wrapped around Neli pulsed with energy, tightening their hold.

She struggled, her form twitching as if something inside her resisted violently.

This was his chance.

Steeling himself, Darian stepped forward, his gaze locked on the floating black orb above Neli's head. Its surface rippled, like ink swirling in water, thick with malice.

He reached out, his fingertips barely grazing its edge before he began to chant the acceptance rite.

"I, Darian Valiente... "

"Stand before fate itself and offer my body as—"

The air tensed.

The words left his lips, but the orb resisted.

Neli's body resisted.

Her eyes widened, filled with a mixture of pain and defiance.

The chains shuddered, straining as her resistance pushed back against him.

A sudden force repelled Darian backward.