CHAPTER NINETY FOUR - Beyond The Veil Of Illusion

Inside, the conflicting energies reached a critical point. Morgana's barrier shattered with a sound like breaking glass, releasing the contained power in a shockwave that knocked everyone off their feet. Aria maintained her grip on Lucas, their mate bond providing a surprising stability in the chaos. The golden tether connecting them to the Alpha essence remained intact despite the barrier's failure, continuing to draw power back to its rightful owner. Victor staggered as the containment field dissolved, but quickly recovered. His hands moved in complex patterns, violet energy flowing around him as he attempted to claim the freed Alpha essence. "You're too late," he called to Lucas, triumph in his voice. "Your power is already intertwined with mine. Neither of us can claim it alone!" Vanessa collapsed to her knees, her body rejecting the remaining power as it tore itself apart. Blood trickled from her nose and ears, her once-beautiful face contorted in agony. "You promised," she g