A sudden chamber opened mid-hall. Innocents were trapped in cages of light, fragile and screaming. Simultaneously, shards of glowing crystal—points, rewards, upgrades—hovered temptingly near.
Notice's voice was steady, almost reverent: "Decision defines essence. Morality and survival tested simultaneously. Choose, act, live with consequence."
Every instinct urged me toward power. Every moral instinct screamed to protect. My pulse synced to Rhythm, guiding thought and motion. Best Welder hummed faintly as I welded makeshift keys and locks, creating shields, redirecting traps, and freeing innocents while simultaneously countering the mirrored shadow's attack.
Each rescued life brought relief and exhaustion; each point left untouched lingered like a whisper of temptation. But the choice was clear. Protection over gain. Every movement deliberate, every action conscious, weaving skill, conscience, and perception into one unified pulse.
Because I was Mizu. Broken once, yes—but choosing, acting, surviving with integrity, mastering not just skill but conscience.