The enormous golden eyes stared through the gateway.

The entire fortress trembled beneath their gaze.

Lyra's Crystal Heart pulled harder.

She cried out as her feet began sliding toward the opening.

"Lucien!"

He tightened his grip around her hand.

"I've got you!"

Seraphina grabbed Lucien from behind.

"Don't let go!"

Aster spread their wings and released a powerful burst of celestial energy.

The pull weakened.

For a moment, Lyra stopped moving.

Then the Mother of Darkness spoke.

"Child of the Void..."

Lyra froze.

"Why are you calling me that?"

"Because you belong to me."

The Crystal Heart flashed.

Lyra screamed.

---

The Warden watched with satisfaction.

"Yes."

"The Heart is...