After the chant ended, the shadows rose.
They wrapped around them, sealing the contract. The demon king ring pulsed, signaling that the contract was successful. Then it sank into his chest, merging with his heart. Slowly, her once bright red hair darkened, its edges now touched by shadow.
She tilted her head, her gaze meeting his, then tilted back down to the spot the ring sank. She placed her hand onto his chest, then looked up at Kael.
"Will you be okay?"
The words made his chest tight. He was no fool. He knew she was worried. He could see it in her eyes, her face.
He leaned forward and pressed his forehead against hers. They stayed like that for a moment. His breath was steady. His eyes calm.
"Everything will be okay," he whispered.
Then he kissed her.
Their shadows merged behind them, still flickering with faint energy.
When they finally pulled apart, he kept his hand on her cheek, gazing into her eyes.
Neither of them spoke.
