Extra Chapter 9 - Was Katya always so… obsessive?

The dim, claustrophobic corridors of Team Abyss’s base felt stifling, even in the moments of silence in which Katya sought solace. She leaned against the cold metal wall, her arms crossed as she stared down at the polished floor beneath her boots. Her mind raced, fragmented thoughts colliding with each other like shards of broken glass.

It wasn’t the first time Katya had been transferred from one group to another, but this one came with a unique bitterness. She had joined Team Abyss after… the incident. No one spoke of it directly—neither those around her nor Katya herself. But the memories were still raw. The fear in their eyes, the blood on her hands, the aftermath of her obsessive pursuit of something—someone—who had slipped through her grasp. She didn’t need anyone to remind her of how it had ended. The wounds she'd left behind were deep, the silence louder than any accusation.

There, in Team Abyss, she had faded into the background. She didn’t speak much, and no one pushed her to. Her presence was tolerated rather than embraced, and Katya preferred it that way. She moved like a shadow among them, participating in missions, contributing just enough to stay relevant, but never enough to stand out.

That began to change when Leila assumed leadership. Unlike the previous leader, who had been distant and impersonal, the woman had a way of bringing cohesion to the team. Katya couldn’t pinpoint the exact moment it happened, but under Leila’s guidance, she found herself slowly becoming more involved. Not because she particularly cared, but because it was easier to follow Leila’s lead than to resist the flow of the group.

Her contributions weren’t remarkable, but they were steady. Through missions that ranged from trivial errands to harrowing battles, Katya’s “Potential” stat rose steadily. She acquired new skills and items, though she wasn’t particularly attached to them. They were tools, nothing more. Her emotional detachment persisted, her mind a haze of disinterest and weariness.

The truth was, Katya didn’t feel like she belonged there—or anywhere, for that matter. The difference between the real world and this so-called death game was negligible to her. The monotony of missions blurred the lines between survival and existence. Each day felt emptier than the last, and she often questioned why she even bothered to continue.

That changed after one particularly grueling mission. The team had barely scraped by, surviving by sheer luck and desperation. Katya had been physically unscathed, but the exhaustion in her teammates’ eyes left an impression she couldn’t quite shake.

After the mission, Leila called her into the central chamber of their base. The room was dimly lit, a circular table in the center illuminated by the faint glow of holographic displays. The leader stood at the head of the table, her presence commanding but not oppressive.

“Katya, I wanted to talk to you about something important.”

Katya crossed her arms defensively, leaning back against the wall.

“If it’s about the mission, I don’t have anything to say. We survived. That’s all that matters.”

Leila shook her head, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

“It’s not about the mission. It’s about what’s next.”

“What’s next?”

Katya repeated, her voice flat. Leila motioned for her to sit at the table. Reluctantly, the blonde complied, though her posture remained tense.

“We’ve been planning something. It’s risky, but it could change everything for the team—and maybe even for this entire game. I want you to be the one to see it through.”

Katya blinked, her expression unchanging.

“Why me?”

Leila tilted her head slightly, studying the girl.

“Because you can do this. You’re capable of more than you realize.”

Katya let out a dry, humorless chuckle.

“You think I care about any of this? I’m just here because I have to be. You’d be better off choosing someone who actually gives a damn.”

Leila didn’t flinch at her apathy. Instead, she leaned forward, her gaze steady and unyielding.

“I know you don’t care about this team or this horrible game. But I also know you’re tired—of the monotony, of the pointlessness. This is your chance to do something different. To break the cycle.”

Katya’s eyes narrowed.

“And what exactly do you want me to do?”

Leila leaned back, her expression softening.

“We’ve prepared two Plot Devices: [Invading Refugees] and [A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing]. They’ll allow you to infiltrate another group. You’ll be playing the role of someone timid and quiet, someone who doesn’t draw attention. All we need is for you to stay under the radar and gather information. When the time comes, you’ll know what to do.”

Katya hesitated. The thought of being thrust into another unfamiliar group was far from appealing. But there was something in Leila’s tone—a quiet confidence, a belief that the girl couldn’t quite dismiss.

“And if it fails?”

Katya asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Then we’ll deal with it, together.”

Leila said firmly. For a moment, neither of them spoke. The silence was heavy but not uncomfortable.

Finally, Katya sighed, rubbing the bridge of her nose.

“Fine, I’ll do it. But don’t expect me to play nice with anyone.”

She muttered. Leila smiled, a genuine warmth in her expression.

“I wouldn’t dream of it. But I think you’ll find that the people you’ll meet aren’t so bad. They're trustworthy if it’s the same group I’m thinking of. Maybe even likable.”

Katya snorted.

“I’ll believe that when I see it.”

The preparations were quick but meticulous. With the team pooling the last of their points, the Plot Devices were activated. A beam of light enveloped Katya, and for the first time in what felt like ages, she felt a flicker of something unfamiliar—anticipation.

The light dissipated, leaving Katya standing in the center of an unfamiliar room. Her body stiffened instinctively, her eyes darting around as she took in her surroundings. The space was stark and utilitarian, the steel walls catching the harsh glow of overhead lights.

The girl inhaled slowly, steadying herself. Focus. Blend in. Don't draw attention. Leila's words echoed in her mind. She shifted her gaze cautiously, taking in the people scattered throughout the room. This was the team she was meant to infiltrate, and every detail mattered.

Her eyes first landed on a young girl sitting quietly in the corner, fiddling nervously with the straps of her gear. Chloe, Katya thought thanks to her [Shared Essence Lv3] skill which allowed her to see certain information of other users. The girl’s pink hair framed her soft features, and her eyes darted around, wide with a mix of fear and uncertainty. Katya noted her fragility, the way her hands trembled slightly as she worked the straps. A newbie, she concluded, her gaze moving on without much interest.

Next, Katya spotted a man standing nearby in a spotless military uniform. His posture was rigid, his expression unreadable. Gregor, she identified him, her eyes briefly scanning the neatly arranged badges on his chest. Everything about him screamed discipline, but his cold demeanor didn’t intrigue her. He seemed like a man who followed orders without question, and Katya had no patience for that kind of person. It was predictable. Nothing worth remembering.

Beside Gregor stood Amir, a small boy no older than ten, his thin frame almost swallowed by his oversized, worn-out clothes. His shirt was frayed at the edges, and his pants had patches hastily sewn on. Bruises mottled his arms and legs, peeking out from his rolled-up sleeves and pant legs. He fidgeted nervously, his eyes darting around the room as if searching for an escape.

Katya narrowed her eyes slightly, tilting her head as she observed him. His hunched posture and the way he clutched tightly at the strap of a worn backpack spoke volumes. He looked exhausted—beaten down by something far heavier than his young shoulders should bear.

Her gaze settled on Drake next, and her jaw tightened involuntarily. He stood near the center of the room, leaning casually against the table as if he belonged there. His light blond hair framed sharp blue eyes, and there was an effortless charm about him that immediately set Katya on edge. He had an easy smile, his demeanor warm and approachable.

“The classic pretty boy.”

She thought bitterly, crossing her arms tightly over her chest.

“Guys like him always act nice, but it’s just a mask. No doubt he’s fake, just like all the others.”

Her distaste was immediate and unshakable, and she forced herself to look away. A loud voice cut through the room, drawing Katya’s attention to Li, who was pacing nearby with a scowl etched across his face. His tone was sharp, his words clipped as he argued with someone she couldn’t see. His gestures were exaggerated, his movements erratic. Katya observed him with narrowed eyes, her lip curling slightly in disdain.

“Serious emotional baggage, he’s either unstable or just insufferable. Not my problem either way.”

She thought, her mind already dismissing him. In contrast, Adam leaned casually against the wall, his arms crossed over his chest. His brown hair was slightly messy, and he wore a neutral expression, neither enthusiastic nor entirely detached. Katya lingered on him for a moment, but there was nothing particularly striking about his appearance or demeanor.

“Normal. Boring. Nothing to think about.”

She concluded, her interest waning quickly.

Then there was Kazue. Katya winced internally as the girl’s loud, animated voice filled the room. She spoke with boundless energy, her hands waving wildly as she explained something to whoever was unlucky enough to be nearby. Her dark hair was somewhat messy, and her expression was bright and full of enthusiasm.

“Why is she so loud?”

Katya thought, suppressing the urge to roll her eyes.

“Does she ever stop talking? I already have a headache.”

She made a conscious effort to tune out Kazue’s chatter, shifting her focus elsewhere.

Seated cross-legged on the floor was someone with long, dark hair that fell in soft waves around their face. At first, Katya thought it was a girl—delicate features, slender frame—but when the person spoke, the deep resonance of their voice startled her.

“Wait, that’s a guy?”

She blinked, momentarily thrown off. It was Nikolai, and his androgynous appearance left her momentarily unsure of how to categorize him.

“Weird. Definitely weird.”

Finally, Katya’s gaze landed on the oldest member of the group, a man seated near the far wall. His salt-and-pepper hair and weathered face immediately set him apart from the others. He was calmly chatting with a mechanical bird, his movements steady and practiced. Katya frowned slightly, tilting her head.

“What’s someone like him doing here? He doesn’t look like he belongs in a death game.”

Taking in the entire scene, Katya felt a sense of detachment creeping over her. These people were strangers, each wrapped up in their own lives, and none of them seemed particularly remarkable. She reminded herself why she was here—Leila had entrusted her with this mission, and she couldn’t afford to falter after all that pep talk.

Drawing a deep breath, she adjusted her posture and moved near the edge of the room. Her steps were hesitant, her movements deliberate as she forced herself to embody the role of someone timid and unsure. She kept her head down, avoiding eye contact, and listened quietly, folding her hands in her lap.

Her heart raced, but outwardly, she maintained her composure. Acting timid wasn’t difficult—it came naturally to her. But there were moments when she had to consciously restrain herself. When Kazue’s voice grew unbearable, she bit her tongue to keep from snapping. When Drake’s easygoing smile turned her way, she resisted the urge to glare.

Katya just stayed there in silence, her gaze fixed on the floor as conversations buzzed around her. Her fingers tightened briefly into fists before she forced them to relax upon being transported to the next scenario.

———

The bustling streets of Heavenly Jade City were a whirlwind of life and chaos. Merchants shouted over each other, hawking wares that ranged from glistening jade trinkets to the finest silk robes. The rhythmic pounding of craftsmen’s tools echoed from workshops, while the distant sounds of martial artists sparring filled the air with the promise of imminent conflict. It was a sensory overload for most, but Katya absorbed it all with a detached efficiency. Her sharp gaze darted from stall to stall, her ears tuned to every stray comment, every rustle of fabric, and every clink of coins exchanged. Beneath her calm façade, her mind was a storm of calculations. Every detail, no matter how small, could be a clue or a threat.

Yet her intense focus was interrupted when Chloe and Kazue each grabbed one of her hands. Their fingers intertwined with hers, warm and soft, pulling her away from her carefully guarded mental space.

"Let’s stay together!"

Chloe said cheerfully, her voice like a bell cutting through the noise. Her grip was firm but reassuring, as though she were anchoring Katya to the moment. Kazue grinned, a mischievous glint in her eye.

"And don’t even think about slipping away. You look like the type to wander off and get lost!"

Katya’s initial instinct was to pull her hands away, the unwanted touch unsettling her in a way she couldn’t quite explain. But she resisted, forcing herself to play the part they expected of her. She lowered her gaze, feigning shyness as she tightened her grip just enough to seem genuine.

"I-I won’t."

She murmured, her voice small and hesitant, perfectly crafted to blend into the background of their lively chatter.

The trio moved through the throng, with Kazue leading the way toward a restaurant Chloe had pointed out earlier with uncontainable excitement. Katya allowed herself to be guided, her irritation simmering just beneath the surface. She hated how easily they assumed they could pull her along, like she was some helpless doll. But she bit her tongue and played her role. Drawing suspicion was not an option.

The restaurant was a lavish establishment, its interior a harmonious blend of polished wood and intricately carved jade panels. Lanterns cast a warm, golden glow over the room, creating an atmosphere of comfort and refinement. Katya slid into her seat at the low table, her posture demure, her hands resting delicately in her lap. The others chattered excitedly, their voices blending with the murmur of other diners, but Katya's focus was razor-sharp as her eyes flicked to the man seated across from them: Zhou Tianhe.

Zhou exuded confidence that bordered on arrogance, his every gesture a calculated display of superiority. He leaned back in his chair, his voice smooth as silk but carrying an unmistakable edge of condescension.

Katya’s lips curled inward when he started to talk as if he was superior to them, suppressing the urge to sneer. She hated men like Zhou—men who wielded power carelessly, as if the world owed them its submission. While the others nodded along to his words, Katya pretended to listen, her expression perfectly neutral. Beneath the table, she summoned her Tulpa, the dark, ephemeral presence slipping into existence like a shadow come to life. Its spectral form coiled around the man’s neck, invisible to all but her.

Zhou faltered mid-sentence, his hand flying to his throat as his voice wavered. He coughed lightly, his polished veneer cracking under the weight of his sudden discomfort.

Katya’s fingers tightened subtly around her teacup, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth. Weak. Pathetic. She wasn’t helping her team out of loyalty or camaraderie. No, her actions were entirely self-serving. Threatening Zhou ensured he would comply, which made the mission smoother, which, in turn, made her job easier. But as the man fumbled to regain his composure, Katya couldn’t deny the small, dark thrill of satisfaction that coursed through her. He didn’t even know he was choking on the leash she had placed around his throat.

That evening, the group arrived at a grand hotel that loomed over the bustling streets like a monument to wealth and decadence. Its carved wooden screens and silk-draped windows whispered of luxury, the kind Katya had been surrounded by in her youth but had long since learned to despise.

As they gathered in the common area, Kazue crossed her arms, her expression serious but tinged with her usual dramatic flair.

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"Men and women are not sleeping together!"

She declared, her tone brooking no argument.

"I’m drawing the line here."

Chloe giggled, her amusement lighting up the room, while Adam and the rest of the men rolled their eyes with an air of weary acceptance.

Katya remained silent, observing the interaction with mild interest. Kazue’s insistence drew attention, something Katya usually avoided. But it also presented an opportunity.

“Sticking close to her might make me less noticeable.”

When the group began drawing lots to determine group arrangements, Katya’s Tulpa stirred once more. Invisible to all, it moved the slips of the cards with eerie precision, ensuring that the blonde would end up in Kazue’s group. When the results were revealed, Katya maintained her quiet demeanor, but inside, a faint flicker of satisfaction warmed her.

The streets of Heavenly Jade City transformed under the soft glow of lanterns, their warm light casting intricate patterns on the cobblestones. Kazue darted from stall to stall, her energy boundless and infectious.

"Look at this! Isn’t it beautiful?"

She exclaimed, holding up a brightly painted fan adorned with cranes in mid-flight. Katya followed at a measured pace, her sharp eyes scanning the crowd for any sign of danger. Yet, as the night wore on, she found herself increasingly drawn to the girl’s enthusiasm. It was... disarming.

When Kazue haggled for a jade bracelet and somehow managed to pay more than the asking price, Katya couldn’t suppress a quiet chuckle. The sound surprised her—it felt foreign, almost unfamiliar. Kazue turned, her eyes bright with laughter, and for a moment, the blonde felt her guard slip.

“She’s... different”

Katya thought, though she quickly pushed the notion aside. It was dangerous to let herself feel anything.

Their wandering eventually led them to a small martial arts demonstration. Kazue clapped and cheered, her face lit with genuine awe. Katya stood beside her, her expression as neutral as ever, but inside, she felt something stir—a strange, inexplicable warmth.

As they entered the tea house, the atmosphere shifted. The room was dimly lit with lanterns casting a soft glow over the polished wooden tables and intricate silk tapestries adorning the walls. The air smelled faintly of incense, mingled with the sharp aroma of brewed herbs. Kazue, ever the bundle of energy, practically skipped to the nearest table, Chloe and Adam following with a curious look. Katya trailed behind, her sharp gaze sweeping over the room, cataloging every detail. Her Tulpa stirred faintly within her—a quiet warning she had learned to heed over many days of training.

The group was seated at a low table, cushioned on ornate mats. A server brought over a tray of porcelain teacups and a steaming pot of tea, bowing deeply before retreating. Kazue leaned forward eagerly, already pouring herself a cup, her enthusiasm contagious as she filled Chloe's, Adam’s, and Katya's cups too. The blonde forced a small smile and accepted hers, watching as the tea swirled in her cup—a pale green liquid with a delicate floral scent.

But something felt wrong. The Tulpa in her mind whispered warnings, its presence bristling with unease. Katya raised the cup to her lips, pretending to take a sip. Her sharp senses picked up on the faint bitterness that lingered just under the floral aroma, a telltale sign of poison—or more accurately, a sedative. She set the cup down gracefully, glancing at her companions. Chloe was mid-sip, her expression serene, while Adam had already finished his. Kazue, as usual, was chattering happily, entirely oblivious.

Katya’s mind worked rapidly. Should she warn them? No. Doing so would risk exposing herself. Besides, she had no real allegiance to these people. Let them succumb; it might even work in her favor if they were out of the way for a little while. Her heart remained cold to the idea of intervention, yet she couldn't entirely suppress the faint pang of unease as Kazue finished her cup and reached for another.

Moments later, the effects began to show. Chloe was the first to slump forward, her head resting against her arm as her eyes fluttered shut. Kazue held out longer, her boundless energy allowing her to resist for a few extra moments, but eventually, her movements grew sluggish. She blinked up at Katya, her lips curving into a faint, sleepy smile before she collapsed sideways. The blonde caught her instinctively.

The moment her arms wrapped around Kazue, something shifted. For a brief second, all her carefully constructed defenses faltered. Kazue’s weight against her felt strangely... comforting. The warmth of her skin, the faint scent of her hair, and the vulnerable way her head rested against Katya’s shoulder—all of it struck an unfamiliar chord. Katya’s cheeks flushed despite herself, and she hated the way her heart skipped a beat.

Adam had moved quickly to catch Chloe, which was weird since he also had drunk the poisoned tea, but Katya just disregarded the thought. After returning to the hotel again, they just laid the sleeping girls and went to bed.

The next morning, Katya awoke to find Kazue already up and bounding around the room. The previous night’s events felt like a fever dream, but the faint blush on her’s cheeks reminded her it had been all too real.

“Katya! Come here! Let me help you with your hair. It’s so beautiful—it deserves a little extra care!”

Kazue called, waving a comb in her hand. Katya hesitated, her usual mask faltering.

“I-I can do it myself.”

She said, her tone clipped.

“Nonsense! You’ll see, I’m great at this!”

Kazue responded, grinning as she pulled Katya to sit in front of her.

As Kazue’s fingers worked through her hair, the blonde found herself relaxing despite her reservations. The gentle tug of the comb, the warmth of Kazue’s hands, and her cheerful chatter all felt strangely soothing. Katya hated how much she enjoyed it, how the praise about her hair made her heart flutter.

Later that day, as part of the group prepared to attend the gala, Katya found herself unusually preoccupied with her appearance. The invitation from the mafia leader had come with clear instructions: formal attire was required. While she normally dismissed such things as trivial, she couldn't help but feel an odd twinge of self-consciousness when Kazue eagerly offered to help her pick out a dress.

The three of them—Katya, Kazue, and Chloe—wandered through the bustling markets of Heavenly Jade City, their eyes scanning the storefronts for something appropriate. Kazue was positively buzzing with energy, darting from one boutique to another, holding up dresses for the group to inspect.

"This one!"

Kazue exclaimed, holding up a shimmering beautiful white gown.

"Katya, you have to try it on. It would look stunning on you!"

Katya blinked, momentarily taken aback.

“I don’t think—”

She started, but Kazue had already grabbed her hand and was dragging her into the shop. Inside, the boutique was a whirlwind of silk and satin, the air perfumed with the faint scent of lavender. Kazue’s enthusiasm was relentless as she thrust dress after dress into the blonde’s arms.

“Go, try them on!”

She urged, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Reluctantly, Katya stepped into the fitting room, closing the heavy curtain behind her. As she slipped into the white dress, she caught sight of herself in the mirror. The dress hugged her figure perfectly, its vibrant color contrasting beautifully with her pale skin and dark hair. For a moment, she barely recognized herself.

“Come on, let us see!”

Kazue’s voice rang out, impatient and full of anticipation. With a sigh, Katya drew back the curtain. The reaction was immediate.

“Oh my gosh! You look stunning!”

Kazue gasped, clapping her hands together. Even Chloe nodded in agreement.

“It really suits you!”

Katya felt heat rise to her cheeks, her usual composure slipping. It was just a dress… She tried to mutter, but her voice lacked strength.

Kazue leaned in closer, her face glowing with admiration.

“No, really. You’re so beautiful. You should wear things like this more often.”

The sincerity in her tone caught Katya off guard. She averted her gaze, mumbling something incoherent as she stepped back into the fitting room to change. Her heart was racing, though she refused to acknowledge why.

When it was Kazue’s turn to try on dresses, the roles reversed. Katya found herself awkwardly offering suggestions, her voice faltering as her friend modeled each outfit. One particular dress—a flowing, pale-blue gown with intricate embroidery—made the girl look ethereal.

“Well? How do I look?”

Kazue asked, twirling playfully. Katya’s mouth went dry.

“You… look fine.”

She managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper. Kazue was a little bit disappointed.

“Just fine? Oh man, I thought it looked good… Are you sure?”

Katya looked away, pretending to inspect a nearby rack of dresses.

“No… Eh… You look good.”

She said stiffly, though her cheeks were burning, and by the time they left the boutique, their outfits purchased, and plans finalized, Katya was more flustered than she cared to admit.

The gala itself was held in a sprawling mansion on the outskirts of the city, its grand halls illuminated by ornate lanterns. The group entered cautiously, their senses heightened despite the lavish surroundings.

Katya clung close to Kazue, using her as a buffer against the curious stares that followed them. Her beauty, accentuated by the white gown, drew attention wherever they went. Men approached her repeatedly, offering compliments and invitations to dance.

“Thank you, but no…”

She said politely, each refusal laced with barely contained irritation. One man, however, was more persistent. He was tall and imposing, with a predatory smile that made Katya’s skin crawl.

“You shouldn’t refuse every offer. A woman like you deserves to be admired.”

He said, his tone slick.

“I’m not interested.”

Katya replied coldly, stepping back.

The man’s smile faltered, replaced by a flash of annoyance. Before she could react, he reached out, grabbing her arm firmly.

“You’re being rude.”

He said, his voice low and menacing. Katya’s pulse quickened, anger flaring in her chest. She was moments away from summoning her Tulpa, mission be damned, when a familiar voice cut through the tension.

“Hey, is there a problem here?”

Kazue appeared beside her, her expression uncharacteristically serious. She placed herself between Katya and the man, her stance deceptively relaxed. The guy hesitated, clearly taken aback by Kazue’s sudden appearance.

“This doesn’t concern you.”

He said, though his grip on Katya’s arm loosened. Kazue tilted her head, her smile disarmingly sweet.

“Oh, but it does. You see, she’s with me.”

The man glared at her for a moment before muttering something under his breath and retreating. As soon as he was gone, Kazue turned to Katya, her expression softening.

“Are you okay?”

Katya nodded, though her heart was still racing. For a moment, she couldn’t speak, overwhelmed by a confusing mix of gratitude and something else she couldn’t quite name.

“Thank you.”

She finally managed to say, her voice quieter than she intended. Kazue grinned, her usual cheerfulness returning.

“No problem! That’s what friends are for, right?”

Friends. The word echoed in Katya’s mind as they returned to the group. But as she stole a glance at Kazue, her chest tightening in a way that was becoming all too familiar, she wondered if it was really that simple.

–––

The next day at the tournament, Katya sat in the stands, feigning disinterest. She told herself she was only there to assess her team’s abilities, to see what they were truly capable of. But as the matches began, her eyes kept drifting to Kazue.

When the girl stepped into the ring, Katya’s pulse quickened. She watched as Kazue fought with a mix of precision and reckless energy, her movements almost hypnotic. Katya found herself leaning forward, her heart pounding in her chest. When her teammate faltered, her breath caught, and when Kazue ultimately triumphed, Katya couldn’t stop herself from standing and clapping, her hands trembling slightly.

That night, the blonde found herself lying on the soft mattress of the luxurious hotel bed, her heart pounding uncontrollably. She stared at the ornate ceiling, illuminated by the faint glow of moonlight filtering through the curtains, unable to relax. Beside her, Kazue lay peacefully, her rhythmic breathing a soothing yet unnervingly intimate sound in the quiet room. Chloe and Emir were also on the bed, but Katya hardly registered their presence; her focus was entirely consumed by the girl mere inches away.

The proximity was overwhelming. The faint floral scent of Kazue's hair wafted toward her, making her pulse quicken. She lay rigid, afraid to move, her mind swirling with emotions she couldn’t fully understand. Her cheeks burned as she tried to reconcile the unfamiliar warmth spreading through her chest. This wasn’t the usual feeling of calculated manipulation or mild amusement she experienced around people. This was something raw, unfiltered, and terrifying in its intensity.

Her breathing became uneven as she tried to calm herself, closing her eyes tightly. But it was impossible to ignore the soft rustling of fabric as Kazue shifted slightly in her sleep, her arm brushing lightly against Katya’s. The brief contact sent a jolt through her body, making her fists clench at her sides.

When the faintest sound of “irregular wind” reached her ears from the outside, Katya’s heightened awareness snapped into focus. At first, she thought she was imagining it, but the subtle creak of the ceiling confirmed her suspicion. Her mind sharpened instantly, all traces of warmth replaced by a cold, calculating edge. She felt her Tulpa stir within her, a faint ripple of energy in her consciousness.

With her thoughts, she commanded it:

“Deal with them. Quietly.”

The Tulpa obeyed without hesitation, its form slipping into the shadows like a predator stalking prey. Their intent was clear, and it ignited a flare of possessive anger in her chest. How dare they disturb this moment? She thought venomously.

She lay still, feigning sleep, while the Tulpa intercepted the would-be attackers and then went away for some reason, maybe some of the assailants were able to escape? The girl didn't care since the Tulpas were an extension of her own psyche even if they had a fragment of consciousness. But now that the danger had passed, her attention drifted back to Kazue. Her emotions, now amplified by the adrenaline, were impossible to ignore. She turned her head slightly, allowing herself a moment to observe the peaceful expression on Kazue’s face. A soft smile curved her lips, and Katya felt her chest tighten.

“What is it about you? Why do you have this effect on me?”

She thought, her gaze lingering.

The rest of the night passed in a haze of restless thoughts and emotions. The girl didn’t sleep a single moment, her mind replaying every interaction with Kazue, every smile, every word. By morning, she was both exhausted and more certain than ever that something inside her had changed irrevocably.

Every moment spent near Kazue felt like a test of her self-control. She found herself instinctively gravitating toward her, seeking excuses to touch her arm or stand closer than necessary. When Kazue laughed, it sent a warmth through Katya that she couldn’t ignore, and when the girl turned to her with that carefree smile, Katya’s heart raced uncontrollably.

Kazue, however, seemed completely oblivious. Her innocence, and her unguarded friendliness, only made Katya’s feelings more intense. There was no fear, no hesitation in her friend’s actions. She treated Katya with the same casual kindness as everyone else, which both frustrated and fascinated her. Katya couldn’t understand how someone could be so open, so unaffected by the weight of the world.

For the first time in years, Katya felt vulnerable—and she hated it. Yet, at the same time, she couldn’t deny the strange, addictive thrill that came with being near Kazue. It was a dangerous combination, one that threatened to unravel everything she had carefully built around herself. But as she watched Kazue move through the day with her usual boundless energy and unguarded charm, Katya knew one thing for certain: she wasn’t ready to let go.

———

Katya's feelings toward Kazue continued to grow at an alarming rate, oscillating between what a normal person would say to be love and obsession. The line between the two blurred as time went on, and she couldn’t shake the urge to remain close to her friend, ready to protect her at any moment. This instinct flared sharply when they found themselves fleeing Park Zhen’s mansion. The chaos of the escape only heightened her desire to shield the girl from any harm.

When the group leaped from the mansion’s second-floor balcony, it was Katya’s Tulpa who intervened. The invisible being grabbed Kazue by the collar of her shirt mid-air, ensuring she landed safely on her feet. Katya’s breath hitched at the sight, her gaze locked on the girl as if she were the only person there. Then the same invisible Tulpa cleared their path of guards and obstacles with surgical efficiency, eliminating threats before the group even encountered them. Every time Kazue made it safely past a checkpoint, a sense of relief—and something far more intense—washed over Katya. She barely noticed the others, her focus consumed entirely by Kazue's every movement.

When they were finally rescued, the tension in Katya’s chest momentarily eased, but her composure was tested immediately afterward. Their rescuers introduced themselves, and among them was Shen—a tall, confident figure whose charisma seemed to catch Kazue’s attention. Katya’s stomach churned as she witnessed her friend’s cheeks flush faintly at something Shen said.

"Why does she react like that to him?"

Katya’s thoughts turned dark, a storm of jealousy swirling inside her. The rational part of her knew she couldn’t act on her emotions, not here, not now. But the irrational side, the one that craved Kazue’s undivided attention, screamed at her to do something. Her hand twitched, almost summoning the Tulpa to strike Shen down on the spot, but she clenched her fists tightly instead, nails digging into her palms.

"No. Not yet. I can’t let her see that side of me... but why does she ignore me now? Why won’t she look at me?"

As the days passed and the group settled into the rebels’ base, Katya found herself constantly seeking ways to stay close to Kazue. The bustling environment allowed her to blend her motives with practicality, offering to spar or assist Kazue during training sessions. Her Tulpa, ever loyal to her whims, subtly interfered with Kazue’s ki, prolonging her training sessions under the guise of rigorous exercise. The logic was simple to Katya: if her friend was here training, she wouldn’t be elsewhere, and more importantly, she wouldn’t be near Shen.

However, when Shen himself suggested private lessons to help Kazue improve, the blonde reluctantly called off her Tulpa’s interference. This led to Kazue finally awakening her ki—a milestone that brought visible joy to the girl and an unintended benefit to Katya.

“Katya, come train with me tomorrow.”

Kazue had said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Those words echoed in Katya’s mind, feeding the flames of her obsession…. Her naivety only worsened Katya’s condition. To Kazue, Katya was simply her first real friend. She had no idea what boundaries were appropriate in a friendship, so she never questioned Katya’s increasingly bold actions. When the blonde asked to share Kazue’s bed on cold nights, she merely smiled and agreed. When Katya hugged her arm as they walked through the base, Kazue thought nothing of it. But for Katya, each small touch, each fleeting moment of closeness, felt like a lifeline.

Over the days, Katya’s obsession deepened. Her thoughts grew darker, more possessive. She began to view Kazue not just as a friend but as something that belonged to her—a treasure she would protect at all costs. Kazue was hers. Anyone who got too close or took too much of Kazue’s attention was a threat, and Katya’s Tulpa was always ready to intervene.

This possessiveness reached a breaking point during the battle against Bai Huolong. Trapped in a sealed chamber that nullified her abilities, Katya was forced to watch helplessly as Kazue fought. Every injury her friend sustained sent a fresh wave of rage coursing through her. She bit her lip so hard it bled, her trembling hands clenching so tightly that her nails dug into her skin. By the time she was finally freed, her lips and fingers were smeared with blood from her own self-inflicted wounds.

The moment Katya regained her abilities, she didn’t hesitate. Her Tulpa surged forward, bypassing Bai Huolong’s defenses and dealing a devastating blow that left him exposed. The attack was a stroke of indescribable luck, a crucial turning point in the battle that allowed the rest of the team to overwhelm the Don and secure victory. But Katya didn’t care about the outcome of the fight. Her only concern was Kazue.

Katya’s mind raced as she helped Kazue to her feet. Her obsession had reached a point of no return, and she knew it. But deep down, she didn’t care. All that mattered was Kazue, and Katya was willing to do whatever it took to keep her close—even if it meant crossing lines she could never cross.

–––

Returning to the present, the chaos of the recent battle had faded, but the pounding in her chest hadn’t. Her hands trembled slightly as she clenched her skirt, trying to suppress the overwhelming tide of emotions surging within her. Kazue. That name alone sent a rush of warmth through her, a heat that burned away any semblance of composure she might have once had. She no longer needed to hide. The mask she’d worn so carefully—the aloof, cunning strategist—had fallen away, leaving only the raw truth of her obsession.

When Kazue had leaped to her defense earlier, standing between Katya and the accusing voices of their comrades, she had felt her world stop. The words her friend had spoken—simple but resolute—echoed in her mind on an endless loop.

"Katya’s not dangerous. She saved us all. Without her, we wouldn’t even be alive right now."

Kazue’s expression had been firm, her stance protective. To everyone else, it was a gesture of camaraderie, the loyalty of one teammate defending another. But to Katya? It was everything. Her fingers brushed against her lips as she replayed the scene in her mind, her breath quickening.

Kazue thought about her. She defended her. And now, she was bound to her…

Katya’s thoughts drifted to Adam’s altered Covenant. It had been a stroke of brilliance—at least in her eyes. That small, last-moment, tweak to the skill had ensured that their fates were now intertwined. Every pulse of Kazue’s life force resonated with Katya’s own, a connection so intimate that it made her dizzy with joy.

Kazue had protested, of course, but nothing could be done. Her exasperated sigh had barely registered with the blonde. In truth, she hadn’t cared about Kazue’s objections. The skill wasn’t about safety or survival—it was about permanence. It was her way of ensuring that Kazue could never truly leave her.

Her mind wandered, spinning vivid fantasies. She imagined holding Kazue’s hand, feeling its warmth. She thought about brushing Kazue’s hair, inhaling its faint floral scent like she had that night in the hotel. She wanted to keep Kazue close, to shield her from harm, to be the only one Kazue relied on.

"Kazue doesn’t need anyone else. She just doesn’t realize it yet."

She muttered, her voice barely audible. Her Tulpa stirred faintly in the back of her mind, sensing her agitation. It was always there, a silent extension of her will, ready to act at a moment’s notice. Kazue glanced over at her, smiling softly.

"Hey, Katya! Are you okay? You look like you’re deep in thought."

Katya’s heart nearly stopped. That smile—it was meant for her. She forced herself to appear calm, returning the smile as best she could.

"I’m fine, Kazue. Just… thinking about everything that’s happened."

Her mission? The thought flickered briefly in her mind before she dismissed it with a quiet laugh. What mission? None of that mattered anymore. As long as Kazue was by her side, everything else was irrelevant.