The footsteps grew louder.
Slow.
Steady.
Unhurried.
As though whoever was approaching had absolutely no fear.
The sound echoed through the massive chamber surrounding the Core.
Emily barely noticed.
Her entire attention remained fixed on the glowing figure standing before her.
Her mother.
After years of questions.
After years of loneliness.
After years of believing she was completely alone.
Her mother was standing in front of her.
Even if only as a memory.
Even if only as an echo.
It was enough.
For the first time in her life, Emily finally had answers.
Tears filled her eyes.
"Mom..."
The word escaped her lips almost like a prayer.
Evelyn smiled sadly.
"My little girl."
Emily's chest tightened painfully.
The warmth in her mother's voice was unlike anything she had ever experienced.
It felt familiar.
Natural.
As though a missing piece of her heart had finally returned.
She took a step forward instinctively.
But her hand passed through the glowing image.
