Kaye: I’m sorry! I didn’t mean it!

Bertha suddenly shoved Kaye to the ground with force. Kaye nearly struck her head, but her limbs caught her just in time. Before things could escalate further, Bertha’s friend, Rebecca, stepped in.

Rebecca: Bertha, that’s enough!

Bertha scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain.

Bertha: What a whore. 

She spat near Kaye’s feet and turned to walk away. But behind her, Kaye rose—quietly and slowly. Her eyes shimmered with a cold, blue glow, rage simmering just beneath the surface.

Bertha: *without looking back* Pathetic. Just another little weakling. A girl like you don’t belong in a place like this.

Bertha laughed quietly as she walked away, clearly satisfied with herself. Rebecca frowned, guilt tugging at her. She caught up to her friend, her voice low but firm.

Rebecca: You saw him kiss her, Bertha. That’s why you acted like that, isn’t it? But hurting her like that… it wasn’t right.

Suddenly, Clutching Bertha's arm in pain, Kaye snarled through clenched teeth. Her body shifted, her stance fierce—ready to strike.

Kaye: Then a toxic woman like YOU— *She raised her arm in a powerful throwing stance.*—belongs here more than anyone!

Bertha was launched through the air, spinning wildly before crashing into a stack of straw hay in the storage area. The nearby soldiers erupted into cheers at the sight.

Soldier #2: *Chuckles* Woo~! That pretty girl looks so strong!

 Amid the commotion, Albrecht spotted Kaye—and his heart sank. Without hesitation, he rushed toward her, concern written all over his face.

Kaye stood there, panting heavily as her breath began to steady. Slowly, her awareness returned—like waking from a trance. It felt as though something else had taken over when she raged… something quiet, but consuming. Then she heard her name. 

KAYE!

Albrecht’s voice. But instead of comfort, it brought a rush of pressure—her chest tightened. For a moment, she feared he was angry with her.