章 97: After

Erik's boots echoed through the chamber as he walked toward Valeria. His body remained tense. His every muscle coiled like a spring and he is ready to strike or defend at a moment he notice something strange.

His eyes never left hers with intense gaze as he approached. He stopped just inches away from her, his hand slowly reaching out. Then he grabbed the small bottle from her hand.

The bottle felt cold and slick in his grip. Erik held it up to the light and examining the thick black liquid inside. It looked almost alive as though shadows were swirling inside. The liquid had an unnatural sheen to it, like oil mixed with ink.

His jaw clenched as he looked at it, suspicion still etched on his face.

"Is this really the cure?" he asked with sharp voice. His piercing eyes bore into Valeria.

Valeria met his gaze, her golden eyes just as sharp. Anger flickered within them.

"Yes," she replied curtly with voice remained composed, almost cold.