As the Hateful Essence reached its critical point, Cain felt no dread or apprehension; he knew what to do. Hatred was a nasty, toxic, and corrupting emotion that could easily harm and twist one's thoughts and sense of reality. It did not obey reason and could rise and grow for the most stupid reasons. But despite all that, it was a normal emotion. Sentient beings felt hatred for a myriad of causes, and denying or suppressing it was never the right choice.
His heart was clear as he took a deep breath, honing his mind and soul to the Hateful Essence. This time, he did not attempt to forcefully expel or vanquish it. Instead, he focused all his strength on giving it a flow, a direction, a path through his body and mind. The Hateful Essence was ready to morph into those ghastly hands that would grip the scarlet dragon from within, but under Cain's control and guidance, they began to revolve around his body, forming a spiral.
