Chapter Seventy-Seven

Amid the battle at Charm Beach, Royo proposes stopping Mikail’s heart and reviving him to sever the relic bonds. Mikail counters that Aeri’s heart could be stopped so he could claim her relics and become Dragon Lord, but Aeri refuses, citing the danger of the Immortal Crown and succession risks. Mikail yields and prepares for the attempt.

Royo says only inches of water are needed, and Duval brings a ceramic wash bowl. Mikail kneels, submerges his face, and forces himself to accept drowning to save Gaya. The agony peaks, then vanishes as his awareness ceases.

Mikail awakens on the Road of Souls amid ashen bones and a red sky. He reunites with Euyn, who has lingered due to dying bonded to a relic. As Royo’s summons tugs at Mikail’s soul, Mikail resists, longing to stay. Euyn insists it is not Mikail’s time and promises they will find each other in the next life, urging Mikail to return and finish his work.

Choosing duty and love’s promise, Mikail yields to the pull. He wakes on the grass with Royo over him and vomits water, revived. The chapter closes with the plan’s first step achieved and Mikail alive to confront what comes next.