It was like slowly sinking into the ocean, with Lyle wrapped in the soft body turned into by Nia, separated from the Shadows by only a thin layer. The Shadows emitted a hissing sound, similar to the bubbling of carbonated drinks, and at first, Lyle thought the masterless Shadows were also corrosive. But through Nia's mental connection, he learned she was feeding, eroding the Shadows with that thin membrane.
Not too far away, a light—and Lyle, who was sinking—maintained a not-too-distant distance from each other, as if something warm was chasing Lyle.
This strange capsule journey lasted only about a dozen seconds. By the time Lyle climbed out of the Shadow Pool, Nia had already completely withdrawn back into the sleeve of Lyle's clothing, clearly aware she had caused trouble.
Lyle did not have time to blame her because there was a little trouble behind him.
