Damien's POV — The Silence Between
Damien felt a shift as the mirrored figure stepped onto the icy lake. It wasn't simply the cold that made his ribcage tighten or the ice beneath his feet shiver. It was something deeper, a pressure behind his eyes, like if a forgotten memory was attempting to force its way into his head.
The entity was covered in living glass. Each fragment that travelled over its form flashed with visions of Lena, Damien, Lyra, Ravenmoor on fire, and lives they never lived but could have. "You don't belong here," Damien hissed.
"Neither do you," it said, its voice clear and harmonious. It motioned towards the Key. "She opened the gate." But you'll break it."
Damien raised his sword. The figure did not flinch. Lyra stepped between them, her gaze narrowing.
