A warning from Carminda

The University of Witwatersrand's botanical research center hummed with mid-morning activity. Jacqueline moved between advanced climate-controlled greenhouses, her expertise in rare African plant species earning her both respect and intrigue among her colleagues.

Between lectures on indigenous plant adaptation, she found herself increasingly distracted. The woman in white – always just at the periphery of her vision – seemed to follow her even here, in the heart of Johannesburg's academic world.

Her phone buzzed. Carminda's number.

"The shadow grows stronger," Carminda said without greeting. "It's tracking your progress, measuring your potential."

Through the greenhouse's glass, Jacqueline caught a glimpse of a white-clothed figure standing between native protea bushes. The moment she focused, the figure dissolved like morning mist.

"She wants something," Jacqueline murmured.

"No," Carminda corrected. "She wants something through you."