Emma, Nova, and Tay stood in a tight group near the far corner of the rooftop, quiet and tense. They stayed far away from Cinder, who still hadn't moved from where she stood, her eyes locked on Asher and Sinnett.
The rooftop felt heavier now. No one dared to speak as Asher stood beside Zero's lifeless body, staring down at it with a mix of dread and sadness.
Sinnett finally broke the silence.
"Raise her," he said simply, voice low but clear.
Asher blinked, not sure he heard him right. He turned slightly, looking at Sinnett with disbelief.
"You want me to... raise her?"
Sinnett nodded, folding his arms across his chest.
Asher looked back at the body on the table. His stomach twisted painfully.
"I'm not even sure if I can..." he admitted, his voice rough and dry.