The cocoon erupted into a cascade of shadowy fragments, revealing a transformed Kieran. Where once his arm had been severed, now sprouted a new, monstrous limb; pulsating veins snaked across its surface, standing in stark contrast against its darkened flesh.
The wounds Liam had inflicted earlier were nowhere to be seen; they had healed, leaving only an eery, smooth skin behind. Kieran's eyes, now burning with a deep crimson glow, locked onto Liam's, the same luminescent pattern from his forehead mirrored in them.
Yet, for all the terror of his transformed state, Kieran's breathing was heavy and ragged. Sweat glistened on his brow, and his stance was slightly hunched, revealing his fatigue. It was clear: the battles, the injuries, and the subsequent transformation had drained him considerably.
