Karl stared at the glowing orb with determination, though the words from the voice began to creep into his thoughts. "Happiness?" he said with a hint of sarcasm. "What does happiness mean if it's just freedom without direction? Without limits, life is empty."
The voice chuckled deeply, echoing through the room. "That's just your narrow perspective, Karl. You've never tried to feel this freedom, so you don't know what you're rejecting."
Karl stepped closer to the glowing orb, but his steps faltered. From the circle of strange symbols on the floor, pink energy began to take shape—forming a new figure. A woman, appearing as if crafted from Karl's deepest, unspoken desires. Her long hair, perfect body, and eyes radiated warmth and longing. She smiled gently, just like the previous woman.
"You," Karl muttered cautiously, gripping his crystal tighter. "I know your tricks now."
