Alex crossed into the zone of stillness surrounding Klaus. Immediately, Pride's golden energy flickered inside him—not with caution, but with something akin to recognition. The sensation was jarring, as though the entity that had melded with his consciousness now strained against their communion for the first time since Blackthorn Temple.
This reaction was unexpected. Throughout their partnership, Pride had maintained perfect composure regardless of circumstance. Now, in Klaus's presence, the golden energy pulsed with erratic patterns that threatened to disrupt the careful balance Alex had maintained.
"Cousin," Alex greeted, forcing stability into his voice despite Pride's unsettling disturbance.
Klaus turned, his movement possessing that unsettling fluid quality. His crystalline eyes fixed on Alex with the dispassionate interest of someone examining an insect trapped in amber.
