Mirage took a slow step forward, then another, approaching Moon and the core he held, his eyes never leaving the pulsing purple energy.
Moon didn't move, simply watching, his curiosity deepening with every step the white steed took. Mirage had grown considerably through the recent feedings, crossing into Five-Star, consuming Surpasser corpses.
Had that growth awakened something? Had the steed's bloodline and strength matured enough to recognize the core, to call to it, to be ready for it in a way it hadn't been before?
Could it be that Mirage actually does walk the path of illusion? That his bloodline resonates with the fox's core after all? Is that why he's drawn to it now, because he's finally ready to accept it?
At this very moment, Moon believed so.
The white steed closed the final distance and lowered his head toward the swirling purple core in Moon's hand, his breath warm against Moon's palm.
His eye flashed purple as it fixed on the Supreme-rank catalyst with longing.
