"Hey— Kana! Stay with me. Do you hear me?!"
Evaya's voice was sharp with panic now, though she kept her grip steady.
Kana's eyelids fluttered weakly, her breathing shallow. Her lips moved faintly, as though trying to form words — but nothing came out.
And then, before Evaya could do anything more, Kana's eyes slipped shut.
She went limp in Evaya's arms, her expression soft, almost peaceful, as though the chaos from moments before had never existed.
Evaya held her tighter, glancing down at the unconscious girl with a mix of frustration, relief, and awe twisting in her chest.
"…What on earth are you, Kana?"
She whispered under her breath, her voice trembling despite her composure.
The temple around them was silent again, but the weight of what had just happened hung heavily in the air — and Evaya knew this was only the beginning.
Evaya carried Kana carefully in her arms, her steps steady despite the rush of thoughts swirling in her mind.
