The silence that followed Dr. Blaine's public plea was deafening. Every person in that room seemed frozen in place, as if witnessing something that fundamentally challenged their understanding of reality.
Sebastian's face had gone beyond pale. It was ashen, the color of someone who'd just watched their entire world crumble. His hands gripped the armrests of his wheelchair so tightly that his knuckles had turned white.
"This is impossible," he whispered, but his voice carried in the absolute quiet.
Ethan looked down at Dr. Blaine, who remained kneeling before him with the dignity of a man who'd abandoned pride in favor of truth. The three other doctors stood nearby, their heads still bowed in respect.
"Rise, Dr. Blaine," Ethan said quietly. "Your dedication to learning honors the medical profession."
Dr. Blaine stood slowly, his eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you, Master. I won't disappoint you."
"Master?" Nora's voice cracked slightly. "Did he just call you Master?"
