-Arkan Lawrence-
I instinctively stepped back, trying to steady my trembling body. Emerging from my hiding spot, I fixed a sharp, cold gaze on the woman standing near the massive cocoon.
For a brief moment, her brows furrowed. Then, she laughed—a sound like the chiming of cracked bells. "Oh, it's you. Forgive me; I was just so engrossed in… my work."
She began to approach slowly, her small, glowing staff still firmly in hand. "What are you doing here, Arkan? This is no place for someone like you."
Her words pierced straight into my chest, but I forced myself to remain calm. "I'm here for Rainer," I said, though my voice trembled slightly. "What have you done to him?"
