Chapter 275: The Aftermath
The cavern dissolved into a blur of light and shadow, Snow’s eyes blinking open to find herself back in Arachne’s sanctum. The air was thick with the scent of incense and the flickering candles cast eerie shadows on the walls.
Lilith stood by the stone pedestal, her eyes fixed on something in her hand. Snow’s gaze followed, her heart still pounding from the battle.
Arachne sat cross-legged on the floor, her eyes closed, a look of... calm on her face. Kyle was beside her, his chest rising and falling with slow breaths.
Snow’s eyes narrowed. "What’s going on?"
Lilith turned, her expression unreadable. "The Shadow King’s gone. The mark on Kyle is fading."
Snow sheathed her sword, moving closer. "And Arachne?"
Lilith’s gaze flicked to the woman. "Arachne’s...paying the price for her choices."
Snow’s jaw tightened. "What does that mean?"
Arachne’s eyes opened, gleaming with a hint of triumph. "I did what was needed, Snow. The balance is restored."
Kyle stirred, his eyes fluttering open. "Snow...what...happened?"
Snow knelt beside him, relief washing over her. "You okay?"
Kyle’s gaze was hazy but clearing. "Yeah...I think so."