Chapter 15 · Lyra continued, her gaze drifting over the shadows

She stepped closer to the wall, her voice dropping to a low, dangerous whisper. "I know you're still here. You're not a normal Seed. Normal Seeds don't time their attacks. They don't play with their food."

I froze. I hadn't realized I was being so obvious. But the thrill of the hunt was overriding my caution. I wanted her to find me. I wanted to see how far I could push her before she broke.

"Listen," Lyra continued, her gaze drifting over the shadows. "If you can understand me, just... stay put. I'm not going to kill you if you don't get in my way. I'm looking for something. Someone. If you've seen anything in this sector, give me a sign."

I didn't give her a sign. I gave her a reminder.

I flowed across the ceiling, a silent, undulating ribbon of black. I positioned myself directly above the scout's head. He was still shaking, still whimpering about the Guild and his promotion. He was so pathetic it was almost insulting.

I let a single drop of shadow-ichor fall.

It landed right on the bridge of his nose.

"AAH!" he screamed, jumping up and nearly knocking Lyra over.