Daniela opened her eyes suddenly.
Air rushed into her lungs like a choked thunderclap, and for a moment she just stood there, breathing deeply, every rib protesting the sensation of something burning inside. The last memory still burned: the emptiness, the reflection, the blade, the metallic taste of devouring something not made of flesh.
She was standing.
At least, she thought she was. Her body trembled as if it weren't entirely hers. But when she looked up, she realized: everyone was looking at her.
A circle formed in silence, filled with eyes that varied between fear, doubt, and a hint of barely concealed relief.
Strax was the only one who didn't look away. His posture was rigid, arms crossed, as if any movement from Daniela could force him forward. Beside her, Frieren still had her hand raised, magic wavering in blue runes that flickered as if unsure whether to extinguish or attack.
