Summoning the last of his strength, Cyrus straightened his spine and crossed his legs, assuming a lotus position.
The ground beneath him cracked and trembled from the faint remnants of his power.
He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, focusing his mind inward.
Within his soul, he could see it—thin, glowing chains etched with divine runes, twisting around his core.
They pulsed faintly with Ross's energy, a cold, golden light that burned to the touch.
Cyrus grit his teeth, pressing his will against the bindings, but they refused to yield.
"Damn it… what kind of seal is this?" he hissed through clenched teeth.
His veins bulged, sweat pouring down his temples as he struggled.
Every attempt to resist made the chains tighten, suffocating his spirit, but still he refused to give in.
The hours stretched endlessly.
His breathing grew shallow, his aura flickered, and still he sat unmoving, locked in an internal war against the unseen force that held him captive.
***
