Liora's next step echoed too loudly.
Not because the chamber amplified sound, but because something about this place demanded attention to every movement, every breath, every hesitation. The vast hall did not react with chaos or pressure—it watched in stillness, as though even the world itself was waiting to see what she would do.
The distance between her and the throne shortened.
Not by much.
But enough.
"Stop."
Cairis's voice cut through, sharper than before, no longer controlled, no longer measured. It carried something raw now—something he didn't try to hide.
"Don't take another step."
Liora didn't turn.
Didn't slow.
But her fingers tightened slightly at her side.
"…If I stop now," she said quietly, "then nothing changes."
"That's the point."
The answer came instantly.
Too fast.
Her steps faltered.
Just slightly.
Cairis moved closer, his presence solid at her side, not blocking her—but there. Close enough to remind her that she wasn't alone in this moment.
