Inferno Hearts | Xu Minghao

11. Enigma

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𝔄𝔯𝔦𝔞𝔫𝔞 𝔊𝔯𝔞𝔫𝔡𝔢- 𝔱𝔬𝔲𝔠𝔥 𝔦𝔱

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The turn of events leaves them all taken aback. Minghao's initial intent had veered far from the unexpected outcome that now stands before them. As the room simmers with a mix of emotions and uncertainties, they find themselves grappling with a disconcerting question: What could have possibly triggered such a severe panic attack in Nabi? The air is heavy with a sense of bewilderment, their collective gaze fixed on Nabi as they seek to unravel the enigma that has unfolded before them.

Jeonghan's gaze remains fixed on Nabi, a realization settling over him like a heavy weight. He understands, perhaps with a twinge of remorse, that his actions have likely contributed to the panic attack now gripping her.

Seungkwan's apprehension cuts through the charged atmosphere, a voice of concern that echoes the uncertainty that has enveloped the group. "Hyung, something's not right with her," he voices, his tone carrying a blend of fear and confusion. His words hang in the air, a reflection of the growing unease shared among them, as they grapple with the distressing sight of Nabi caught in the grip of a panic attack.

Without hesitation, Mingyu crouches down before Nabi, extending a hand in an attempt to gently pry her trembling hands away from her face. His intentions, though well-meaning, have an unintended consequence. Nabi's distress escalates, her cries growing louder and the repeated mantra intensifying. The room's tension deepens as they witness this unfolding struggle, their collective helplessness mirrored in Mingyu's eyes as he grapples with the unintended consequences of his actions.

"That's fucked up," Wonwoo adds.

As the distressing scene unfolds, Nabi's voice grows fainter, her words nearly lost in the turmoil of the moment. A sense of inevitability hangs in the air, a prelude to what is to come. Slowly, her voice wanes until it fades into silence, the weight of her ordeal becoming too much to bear. In a cruel twist of fate, her fragile state succumbs to the overwhelming emotions, and her body gives in.

Amidst the hush, Nabi's shackled hands still shield her bruised face, revealing glimpses of the pain she has endured.

Minghao's unwavering gaze remains fixated on Nabi throughout the tumultuous ordeal. His emotions, a turbulent mix of anger, frustration, and something else he can't quite decipher, keep him entrapt in the unfolding scene. As Nabi's consciousness slips away and her body give up to the overwhelming weight of the situation, Minghao finally breaks his gaze, his conflicted emotions taking a toll on him.

When the realization dawns that Nabi has fainted, Minghao is the first to exit the room. The tumultuous events have left him grappling with a storm of emotions he can't easily comprehend. The corridors outside echo with his footsteps.

"Hyung, are we gonna let her in this room?", Dokyeom asks the oldest, Seungcheol.

A heavy sigh escapes Seungcheol's lips, his weariness palpable as he surveys the scene before him. "If any of you feel compelled to move her to the other room, then it seems we have little choice," he remarks, his voice carrying a note of resignation. The weight of the situation has left them with limited options, and his words acknowledge the necessity of tending to Nabi's unconscious form. The air is thick with a somber understanding as they confront the reality of their actions and their responsibility to address the immediate aftermath.