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[Beast Chambers – Valtara Fortress]
A deep growl rumbled through the halls.
Ironhorn, the Indomitable Rhino, Leonhardt's first and most loyal beast, stomped its foot.
Its massive frame radiated power and dominance.
And before it…
Evelyn's beast, Seraphis the Sacred Griffin, stood tense.
The two beasts locked eyes.
One—a beast of a former Heroine.
The other—a beast of the Villain's heir.
Evelyn clenched her fists. "Seraphis… you don't have to stay here."
The majestic griffin glanced at her.
For a moment—Evelyn saw sadness.
Then—submission.
Seraphis bowed its head.
Evelyn's breath caught.
"No… you can't…"
But Seraphis had already made its choice.
It had abandoned Rael's ideals.
It had submitted to Leonhardt's rule.
Just like her.
Leonhardt smirked. "Even your beast knows it."
Evelyn trembled.
Because at that moment—she finally realized.
She had no way back.