Intro. The room was quiet. Too quiet.
Ying Sou shifted under the blanket, knees pulled in. She took a breath.
“…Nyx?”
Nyx didn’t open her eyes. “If this is about monsters, I’m retired.”
“I—I need to go to the bathroom,” Ying Sou whispered. “But it’s dark.”
Nyx smiled without looking at her. “So go.”
Ying Sou froze. “…Alone?”
“Yes,” Nyx said sweetly. “Build character. Face your fears. Become legendary.”
Ying Sou grabbed Nyx’s sleeve. “Nyx.”
Nyx cracked one eye open. “What?”
“My bravery left. It said good night.”
Nyx chuckled. “Wow. Abandoned already?”
Ying Sou pouted. “You’re mean.”
Nyx turned toward her, clearly enjoying this. “Am I? Or am I motivating you?”
“There is no motivation happening,” Ying Sou said softly. “Only panic.”
Nyx sighed dramatically. “Fine. I’ll give you five seconds to convince me.”
Ying Sou didn’t hesitate. “Please.”
Nyx laughed. “Wow. Straight to the final move.”
She sat up and reached for the lamp. “Okay, okay. I’m coming.”
Ying Sou’s shoulders relaxed instantly. “Real