The chamber mimicked memory. It wrapped the mind in illusion until the line between real and recalled blurred. Kael stood at the edge of a burning village, ash falling like snow. Lira hovered behind, observing.
"It's your pain this time," Seren's voice echoed. "Let's see what you do with it."
Kael trembled.
"Where are they?" he muttered. "Where—"
A woman stepped from the flames. Eyes glowing with the same hue as Lira's voice when unleashed. Her voice laced with Lira's tone. Her death, his fault.
Lira stepped in too late. The simulation cracked. Kael dropped, screaming.
And Lira spoke.
One word.
"Stop."
It shattered the chamber walls. Power surged. Sirens wailed. She had broken the rule.
The silence was gone.
And now, they feared her again.
Especially Seren.