"…Please don't leave us again."
Her voice was soft. Shy.
The false Kumiko stepped into the light of the plaza, robe flowing gently with no wind to move it. She looked perfect — golden eyes downcast, fingers delicately curled, the faintest blush on her cheeks. Her steps were silent as she approached him, and her smile… warm.
Too warm.
Nikolai didn't answer her.
He took a step past the chair and circled the platform, approaching the gathered crowd instead.
The dolls watched him.
None reacted. None flinched.
He stopped in front of one that resembled Selene — same face, same posture, same polished restraint in her expression. She gave a small nod as he met her eyes.
"Lord Nikolai," she said gently.
He stared.
