The Qin estate rose from Agartha's floating landmass like a palace carved out of starlight. Tall, luminous walls curved into sweeping arcs, supported by pillars crafted from metal so refined it looked like glass. Holographic lanterns drifted lazily through the air, adjusting their brightness as Ahce and Amiel approached the main entrance.
Everything shimmered. Everything gleamed. And yet, something felt… wrong.
As they crossed the gardens, Ahce paused, staring at a cluster of vibrant blue flowers blooming in perfect symmetry. Their petals glowed faintly, almost too perfect, too symmetrical.
She leaned closer.
No scent...
Not even the faint earthy warmth she'd grown up with. She touched a leaf with her fingertips. It felt smooth, cold, like polished silicone.
Her chest tightened. "Third brother… are these… real?"
He stopped beside her, following her gaze.
"Beautiful, aren't they?" A small sigh slipped past his lips. "Artificial. All of them."
Ahce blinked. "All?"
