That night Elijah dreamed.
A red room.
Endless.
Chains hanging from the ceiling.
And Miriam sitting calmly in the center.
Older.
Stronger.
Eyes glowing gold.
"You're getting stronger," she said softly.
"Elijah."
He stepped forward.
"I'll save you."
She smiled sadly.
"From what?"
The chains rattled.
Shadows moved behind her.
"You still think I need saving?"
The room cracked.
Her voice deepened.
"They're afraid of you."
A whisper echoed:
"If he learns what he truly is… even Heaven will tremble."
Elijah woke up choking.
Outside his window—
The sky flickered.
Just slightly.