Pact of Blood
Did you really think a simple hug and a tearful apology could erase the blood-pact?
That ancient magic is etched into the very foundation of this archive. It is bound to your life force. Every breath you take, every spell you cast, is monitored by the seals of this hall.
If you attempt to defy me—or if my mastermages choose to twist the runes—that blood-pact will turn inward and crush your heart into dust."
Laura’s breath hitched for a fraction of a second, but she refused to cower. She stepped forward, her dual-toned eyes flaring with defiant brilliance. "The only dust in this room will be yours, Cassian. We are done running from your chains."