He had always believed himself immune to criticism. Steadfast. Untouchable.
But right now, that belief is crumbling.
They took everything from you once already, the voice murmured, weaving itself so seamlessly into his thoughts that he could no longer tell where his grief ended and its hunger began. Your parents. Your kindness. And now the very people for whom you bled are refusing to stand by your side. You have been thinking about their well-being. But what about them?
Look at their spiteful eyes, the voice continued.
Kael swept his gaze across the crowd, despite the unease and disbelief tugging at his heart. He didn't want to agree with the voice echoing inside his head. But whatever it spoke was the truth.
Hesitation flickered across his pupils. His face contorted in denial.
"No," he cried out. "That's not true. These people are just influenced."
He tried to argue.
Don't fool yourself, Kael.
The voice sounded contemptuous now.
These people don't deserve your kindness.
