Skylar slumped against the lab counter, her head in her hands. The relentless experiments and training had taken its toll.
"I can't do this anymore," she whispered, tears streaming down her face.
Dr. Voss's stern voice cut through the despair. "Skylar, pull yourself together. You're not a child."
Skylar lifted her gaze, meeting Dr. Voss's cold stare.
"These powers are killing me," Skylar pleaded. "The secrecy, Ryker... I'm losing control."
Dr. Voss's expression hardened. "Control is exactly what you need. Your emotions are compromising our progress."
Skylar's frustration boiled over. "Progress? You're using me like a test subject!"
Dr. Voss stepped closer, her voice dripping with menace. "You're a valuable asset, Skylar. Don't forget it."
The lab equipment surrounding her seemed to mock her, reminders of her failures.
"I'm a monster," Skylar whispered.
Dr. Voss's smile was icy. "You're a tool. And tools need to be honed."
The lab's intercom crackled to life. "Dr. Voss, Ryker's energy signature detected nearby."
Skylar's heart sank. "He's coming for me."
Dr. Voss's eyes glinted with calculation. "Excellent. This is the push you need. Face Ryker, Skylar. Prove your worth."
Skylar's determination ignited, fueled by fear and anger.
"I'll show you my worth," she vowed.
Dr. Voss's smile grew. "I'm counting on it."
As Ryker's presence loomed closer, Skylar steeled herself.
"I'll protect myself, no matter what."
The breakdown had passed; the battle ahead would define her.
YOU ARE READING
Crestcaller: Awakening of the Abyss
FantasyIn "Crestcaller: Awakening from the Abyss," Skylar Lane's life takes a thrilling turn when a near-fatal surfing accident plunges her into the depths of a raging storm. Miraculously, she emerges not only alive but, awakening a mysterious connection t...
