Under the courtyard’s large, newly painted gates, you stood facing outside in contemplation. Leaving Eternal Paradise was a thought, a plan, a promise— your leader, Douma, had become increasingly suspicious, as if he was hiding something from his members.

Right on cue, almost as if he was watching, a cold smooth hand ran over your shoulder, and his charismatic yet calculated voice chimed behind you. “Enjoying the view? It was always something I found calming as well.”