Syris laughed softly, the sound thin and unstable.
"It's funny, isn't it," she said quietly. "I've gotten used to the beatings, but I don't think I can tolerate the pain anymore."
Her fingers tightened around Yura's hand, gripping it as though it were the only thing keeping her grounded. She let out a short, breathless chuckle.
"All my dreams died in this castle," Syris continued. "I thought I could change him. Instead, he's the one changing me."
Her grip tightened further.
"And he dares to accuse me of having an affair."
Without warning, Syris leaned forward and pushed Yura down beneath her, using what little strength she had left. They landed on the floor together, the impact knocking the breath from Yura's lungs.
"What are you doing?" Yura asked, startled.
Syris hovered over her, eyes unfocused but intent. She licked her lips slowly before speaking.
"I think I may have gone crazy," she said. "But right now, I think I want you more than I want my husband."
Yura froze.
