Natalia Kuzmina stepped through the gateway, heart beating with steady, controlled rhythm. A moment of disorientation passed as the simulation materialized around her—a vast crystalline cavern of ice that stretched impossibly high. Massive pillars of frozen water twisted toward a distant ceiling, catching light from an unknown source.
The cold that hit her lungs was so sharp it would have stolen the breath from anyone else. But Natalia inhaled deeply, savoring the sting.
"Subject 118-C," VEGA's emotionless voice filled her private comm. "Aspect: Telekinetic Manipulation. Provisional Threat Level: C-Rank, High Potential. Simulation environment: Glacial Cavern."
Natalia didn't respond.
Two months ago, she had been someone else entirely. Someone who relied on her father's reputation. Someone who masked her insecurities with arrogance. Someone who thought being the best meant standing alone.
