The dark energy from Ward's Devouring Phantom Skull technique coursed through my body like ice water in my veins. It was foreign yet strangely familiar, as if a missing piece of myself had finally clicked into place.
"We need to get him somewhere safe," I told Leopold, nodding toward Ward's withered body. Though barely alive, I could detect the faintest pulse—whatever essence had fled in those shadow tendrils had left just enough life force to keep the vessel functioning.
Leopold's eyes widened. "You want to save him? After what he just tried to do to you?"
"He's more valuable alive than dead," I replied pragmatically. "Besides, I need answers about this 'chaotic body' he mentioned."
I lifted Ward's emaciated form. His once-imposing physique now weighed almost nothing, like lifting a bundle of twigs wrapped in paper-thin skin. His breathing was shallow, barely perceptible.
"Can you take him to your clinic?" I asked Leopold. "Keep him sedated but alive. I'll visit when I can."
