Chapter 189. Together

Xerina’s POV

The chamber’s walls seemed to pulse, breathing with Valeria’s hatred. I felt the cold press of stone at my back, and the temperature in the room dropped to a bone-chilling freeze. Valeria’s spectral form stood between me and the Grimoire, her eyes glinting with a mix of anger and twisted delight.

“You always were a fool, Xerina,” she hissed, her voice dripping with malice. “Did you really think you could take this from me? That you could win?”

I clenched my fists, a surge of defiance rising within me despite the dread twisting in my gut. “I won’t let you or Morvan destroy everything we’ve fought for,” I said, my voice shaking but resolute. “This ends here, Valeria.”

Valeria’s laughter was like nails on glass, piercing and sharp. “You think you have the strength to defeat me? To face what lies ahead? The Blood Pact will consume you, body and soul. Do you have any idea what you’re up against?”

Ignoring her taunts, I forced myself to fo