Chapter 71

　　I'm feeling more powerful than I've ever felt before. My veins are filled with a fresh wave of energy.

　　'This power,' I murmur, twisting my head to look over my shoulder at Reaper. 'Does this come from you?'

　　Reaper squawks before responding over our mind-link.

　　'Yes, now that we're bonded, I can give you as little or as much power as you need.'

　　'Do you mean that what I'm feeling now isn't the whole extent of your power?'

　　'You mean our power, and no, not at all. Let's just pray that you'll never have to utilise the full amount.'

　　'What would happen if we had to utilise it all at once?'

　　'I'd very likely die.'

　　I take a breather. 'Well, I'll make a mental note not to absorb it all,' I say.

　　'We'll see,' chuckles Reaper.

　　The portal to Shadow Crest has opened.

　　'It's time for you to meet your new family, Reaper.' I flash a smirk.

　　'Yes, I can't wait,' he answers unenthused.