"My wife lived her mother's past in hell, and I'm living my future in the Gods' prison. If this celestial game isn't brutal, then tell me, what is it, Saint Saga?"
Kaisun's voice was low, but it carried a weight that pressed against the walls. Despair laced every word, heavy and raw with the pain in his heart, as though his soul had been cracked open.
From beyond the iron door came the unmistakable rustle of movement, whispers, and shifting feet.
"Hey, let me listen!" Benkin murmured, cupping a hand to his sister's ear.
"Shut up! You'll expose us!" she hissed back, elbowing him.
Kai rose without urgency. Each step toward the door was steady, deliberate. He was amused. He could feel them, young ears straining, hearts pounding, curiosity burning in them to know who he was.
With a sudden swing, the door creaked open. The two eavesdroppers tumbled forward in a heap, faces flushed with embarrassment.
They scrambled to their feet, brushing dust and shame from their clothes.
