Worthy Followers

Out of the shadows, a whip-like snake shot forward, piercing through the bottom of Album's foot and coiling tightly around his leg.

Hidden beneath its surface were small chains that latched onto his shadow, anchoring him in place.

His foot froze, a mere inch above Sofia's neck.

Album's eyes narrowed as he glanced at the motionless limb, then slowly turned his gaze to his surroundings, scanning for the source, the attacker.

"Why did you intervene? I thought you were going to just watch."

His eyes soon locked onto Ava, more specifically, the flickering shadow beneath her feet. 

"I know you're there."

A dangerous giggle resounded, and a white-haired woman materialized behind him. 

"Are you sure?"

Before he could react to those words, her right blade gauntlet was already slashing across his neck.

But just as the blade bit into his flesh, it stopped short, unable to sever his head completely.