Finally, they reached a reinforced door with a large observation window.
The glass appeared black at first, an impenetrable void that refused to reveal what lay beyond.
But it wasn't the glass itself—it was the room on the other side, swallowed in complete darkness.
The alchemist hesitated. His fingers hovered over a switch on the wall, his gaze flicking to Lila with something that was not just caution, but sympathy.
"Lady Lila," he murmured, his voice softer now.
"Please… brace yourself."
Lila's breath hitched. Her heart pounded so hard she could hear it in her ears, feel it in her throat.
No.
She didn't want to hesitate. She didn't want to let fear take root.
Just turn on the damn light already.
The alchemist pressed the switch.
Bright white lights flickered on inside the room.
And then—
A sharp inhale.
A single, broken breath.
Lila's eyes widened in sheer horror.
