Weak

Chapter 101 - Daphne POV

I scream, but the sound never reaches past my throat.

My body is frozen, limbs bound by invisible chains, my wrists anchored in midair by the system's restraints. I can't move. I can't speak. All I can do is watch.

[You must not interfere with the main storyline, host. Violation of plot integrity—]

"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!" I scream inside my head, throat raw, heart pounding so loud it eclipses everything else.

The door to Evelyn's chambers slams open. I see her flinch. Frida stumbles back, her cheek already red where he struck her.

Then I see her.

Evelyn.

Hair down, robe loose, eyes wide. Standing over Frida, trying to shield her like she always does. Regal. Terrified. Beautiful.

And then I see him.

Cedric.

I want to tear through the system's chains and rip him apart.

He raises his voice, spitting accusations. Something about betrayal. About dignity. About his title.