The grip changed.
There was no warning.
No gradual tightening, no subtle shift like before—just a sudden, violent surge of force that snapped through Liora's arm and dragged her forward half a step before she could even process it.
Her breath caught.
Not from pain—
From shock.
Because this—
This was different.
The hold that had been controlled, measured, almost patient—
Wasn't patient anymore.
It pulled again.
Harder.
Her body reacted instinctively this time, her feet sliding slightly against the ground as her balance faltered for a fraction of a second.
"Liora!"
Cairis moved instantly.
No hesitation.
No calculation.
His hand shot forward, grabbing her other arm and anchoring her in place, his grip firm enough to counter the unseen force pulling her in the opposite direction.
For a moment—
She was caught between two opposing holds.
One visible.
One not.
The tension snapped tight.
