'My soul isn't just me anymore.'
The thought should have been frightening.
Instead, it gave him hope.
Ethan looked at the five beasts gathered around him.
Wolfy stood like an unbreakable wall, its red eyes fixed on the parasite. Talon remained poised and vigilant, its emerald wings spread wide. Spark flickered with restless energy, while Storm crackled with the quiet intensity of a gathering thunderstorm.
Tide was wrapped around Ethan's shoulder, small and seemingly insignificant beside the others.
Yet every one of them was here.
Not because Ethan had ordered them to fight or because he needed another weapon, but to protect him and themselves.
A strange warmth spread through his chest.
'These beasts...'
His mouth twitched despite the pain.
'Are my fucking bros!'
The parasite seemed to sense the change in him.
