"What are you talking about?"
Viola's voice came out steady, but her eyes sharpened with caution.
"Don't tell me you're not aware that you're going insane."
A low chuckle echoed through the air, thick and amused.
"Well… that's also quite fun to watch."
The serpent's massive body shifted slightly, its golden slit pupils gleaming as it studied her. Its gaze was not just curious, it was entertained.
"And that man you're with…" it continued, voice dragging lazily, "he's quite interesting too. Unlike you, who is covered in malice, he's wrapped in something pure. Something that feels like the very essence of this world's nature itself."
It paused, narrowing its eyes as if savoring the contrast.
"Appearance is indeed quite deceiving…"
Before Viola could react, the serpent slowly raised the tip of its tail and lifted her chin. The touch was light, almost mocking, as it examined her face more closely.
Viola didn't move. She didn't flinch. But her fingers curled slightly at her side.
