Steam was already beginning to build up in the bathroom when Strax pushed the door open and entered slowly, the steady sound of water filling the space with a continuous, almost hypnotic murmur. The room was warm, the walls slightly fogged, and the soft scent of soap mixed with something more subtle—perhaps her own perfume—made everything feel closer, more intimate than anywhere else that night.
Ouroboros stood with her back to the entrance, under the flowing water, her dark hair falling heavily as she ran her fingers through it, slowly dispelling any trace of dirt or accumulated tension. Her movements were calm, but not completely relaxed—there was a subtle stiffness there, something that hadn't yet dissipated since what had happened earlier.
She didn't turn around immediately.
But she wasn't surprised either.
