The Shadow backs away, still speaking. "You're thinking that, in here, they have to depend on you. As long as this place exists, they'll need you."

Souji takes a swipe at the ring of cards circling the Shadow, grabbing for one at random. The Shadow's eyes widen and he sucks in a breath between his teeth as Souji's fingers make contact.

It's like reaching into himself, touching something unexpectedly hot and pulsing, something molten that was never meant to be touched by human hands. Souji's whole body locks up. His sword hits the ground with a scrape and a clang.