The air in the great hall grew heavy as Lucius staggered back, clutching his chest.
His usually serene expression twisted in pain, and for the first time in what seemed like an eternity, confusion flickered across his face.
The attempt to resurrect Maria had not only failed but had also lashed back against him in an unexpected and deeply unsettling way.
"What… what is this?" Lucius growled, his voice sharp with irritation.
A phantom ache rippled through his very soul, a sensation he had not felt since reincarnating as Lord Mors.
His violet eyes flared, searching the room for an explanation.
Lili, ever attentive, stepped forward from his side, her crimson gown fluttering as if caught in an unseen breeze. Her face, a mask of sadistic amusement moments ago, was now tinged with concern.
"My Lord," she began, her voice calm yet urgent. "The Knight must have carried an active Blessing."
