ANTHONY’S POV
The cold from the lower chamber chilled me as Kevin and I made our way down the narrow steps. The deeper we went, the heavier the air became. Down here, magic didn't bounce. It didn’t twist or confuse. It settled. That’s why we chose this place.
Serena sat at the center of the chamber, chained at her wrists and ankles. The iron was filled with runes. Her long black hair hung loose around her shoulders, and her face was calm, too calm. Her eyes were closed, and she hadn't moved a muscle since we brought her down. That wasn’t like her. Not even close. Serena was never still.
I paused a few feet away, staring at her face. She looked… serene. But I knew better. This wasn’t her.
“She hasn’t said a word since that night,” Kevin said beside me “It’s not her anymore, Ant.”
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