It came slowly at first, but Euclid started to notice that something wasn't right. There was a growing presence inside the Academy, an increasing number of bodies. He stood up, attempting to focus as he left the courtyard and went back inside, trying to find his way around. After several minutes of wandering, he found himself in front of a window, seeing shadows on the inside of what looked like a cafeteria. Focusing more, he saw a man who was sitting at a cafeteria table, one who looked less than reputable, smiling. Atop the table, as if not seen by the others, was the silhouette, staring at the window. But, the silhouette was much larger than before, and much more menacing. Its grin was malicious and its teeth were jagged. From its shadowed hands sprung sharp claws. From its maw echoed a vicious laugh with a tone more monstrous than anything he had heard.

Euclid crouched below the windowsill to keep from sight and watched the area. He had no idea who the man was. Was this man another person that happened to fall into this world? Where were Leon and Rose? Were they working with him and, if so, for what purpose? And what of the silhouette? Many questions would need to be answered and, one way or another, he would get them.

---

"Release me!" Bellua yelled, writhing in his prison of chains. "I demand blood! I demand his lifeless body!"

"Not yet," a cold voice echoed throughout the cavern in reply. "There is still much to be done. When the Master is ready, you will be free, and you may seek your creator to the ends of the earth. This..."

A blood-stained locket dropped to the ground, a picture of Euclid inside, settled and withered behind cracked glass.

"...I promise you."