I awoke before dawn, sunlight yet to touch the studio windows.

My eyes opened to the muted glow of early morning, and for a moment I paused, savoring the silence before the world stirred. I rose from the bed, my body moving almost on instinct, guided by months of routine, purpose, and resolve.

The city outside remained still and peaceful. It was a world that believed my absence was voluntary, a reprieve, a quiet intermission between seasons. But I knew better. I understood the storm ...