The Eye of the Bedlam Bride
A living eye tattoo over Carl's sternum permanently embeds Shi Maria within him until he chooses to keep her power or set her free.
Story so far
Shi Maria uses toraline ink and Li Jun's blood to rapidly tattoo a small eye into the center of Carl's chest. She says the dangerous spell may carry a trace of Li Jun's powers and will teach Carl how to wield strength sufficient to become a god.
Her purpose is to attach herself to something Carl cannot discard like a card. He must eventually choose to keep her and gain her power or release her; Shi Maria considers either outcome a victory.
When the fusion ends, the bloody eye blinks, closes, and disappears against Carl's skin. He still feels a bottomless hole inside. The interface gives only the tattoo's name and no description.
Appearance
A small living eye tattoo above the sternum blinking once before vanishing beneath the skin.
Role
The Eye transforms Shi Maria from a removable deck threat into a persistent internal presence and unknown power source.
Relationships
Sources — 2 recorded facts, by chapter
- Odette's cultural metaphor uses Shi Maria's maddening third eye to describe obsession that erases every other concern.
- A living eye tattoo over Carl's sternum permanently embeds Shi Maria within him until he chooses to keep her power or set her free.