(Chapter 52:Mira's Pov)
Mira's eyes snapped open, glowing with an unnatural light.
Lorenzo barely had time to react before a shockwave of energy exploded from her body, sending cracks through the ground beneath them. The ruins trembled in response, as if the very earth could feel her awakening.
Her breath came in sharp gasps, her skin burning hot against his. But her gaze—those glowing eyes—held something beyond exhaustion. Beyond pain.
Recognition.
"Mira," Lorenzo murmured, shifting his grip on her. "We need to keep moving."
Her gaze flickered, unfocused for a moment before locking onto his. "Something is wrong." Her voice was hoarse, almost distant.
Before he could respond, the earth beneath them split apart.
A monstrous claw, gnarled and massive, ripped through the stone floor, dragging itself up from the abyss below. The creature that emerged was not the same as the formless horror Vincenzo fought inside the temple. This one had weight. Form. Purpose.
