Nathan's POV

　　The chamber feels colder today. It's an uncomfortable reminder of the resentment that fills this space.

　　I stand before Ally, watching her with a gaze that I know is more piercing than compassionate. She sits on the stone floor, her back against the wall, her eyes defiant yet weary. There is a strength in her posture, despite the oppressive air of this place, and it irks me.

　　"Ally," I start, my voice soft, deceptively gentle, "I've been ...