CHAPTER 11 : A PACT IN THE SHADOWSRaiden walked down the tight, dark hallways of Ivana’s hideout, holding the black crystal she had handed to him. It throbbed softly, almost like it was breathing, sending a strange warmth through his arm. He felt its power pulling at him, softly promising a strength he had only imagined before. But, under the charm, there was a clear feeling of risk, like keeping a fire too near to some dry wood.He stopped for a moment, listening to the sound of footsteps coming closer from behind. Ivana spoke up, breaking the quiet. Her voice was curious and a bit careful.“You’re hesitating,” she said, walking up next to him. She crossed her arms and looked at him with her sharp, calculating eyes. “What is the problem? Are you scared it might burn you?”Raiden stood up straight, holding the crystal more firmly in his hand. “No. I'm just curious about how many other people you've given one of these to.”She lifted an eyebrow, a fun smile playing on her lips. “Just