He was there, standing just a few paces ahead — smiling that gentle, patient smile she did never see to a leader like him. His eyes held that same unwavering trust, that silent promise that no matter how far she fell, he would be there to pull her back.
But there was something else, too — something she hadn't seen before. His hands were fading into mist, his body flickering like a candle flame in the wind.
"Livia," he whispered, voice breaking. "You're slipping away."
Her heart lurched. "No — no, I'm right here!" She stumbled toward him, reaching out, but he took a step back, fading further.
"You keep pushing me out," he said softly. "Every time I try to reach you, you turn away."
Tears pricked her eyes. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to—"
"Yes, you did."
The voice came from behind her — and when she turned, her stomach twisted into knots.
Aldrake.
