"Strengthen your mind," Aniha warned quietly beside him. "As long as you do not let her in, she should not be able to reach you."
It was protection, yes, but only one more layer among many. Another precaution in a place already built on restraint, sealed by countless circles, hidden behind walls of divine force. Even here, even with Aniha beside him, some part of the danger still rested on him alone. If Nevia reached his mind, no barrier in this chamber would matter.
Amael gave a short nod.
Aniha remained where she was, silent and unmoving, and he understood that as permission to go forward. He stepped toward Nevia.
Then he saw her shoulder shifting.
It was such a small movement that he almost thought he had imagined it. Slowly, Nevia rose from her resting position and straightened into a seated posture.
"Nevia," Aniha called.
For a moment, Nevia did not react.
Then Amael blinked, and she was standing directly in front of him.
