Chapter 16: Seed Of The Matron
Lucien’s hand tightened around Zaraya’s throat—not to hurt her, but to anchor her.
Because her body was changing.
Her fire, once golden and wild, flickered black at the edges. The runes glowing across her skin pulsed with a heartbeat that wasn’t hers.
Zaraya panted beneath him, her legs still wrapped around his waist, sweat dripping down her chest, eyes wide with terror.
"I didn’t know..." she whispered. "I didn’t know there was something else inside me."
Lucien’s jaw clenched.
> [System Alert – Crimson Matron Seed Active]
[Status: Dormant Host | Risk of Possession: 67%]
[Options: Purge, Bind, or Accept]
Lilith appeared in the doorway, dagger drawn. "I heard her voice. That thing is inside her, isn’t it?"
Lucien didn’t look back. "Yes."