Episode 3 – Scene 3: Darius

## **Episode 3 – Scene 3: Darius** **[NARRATION]** Darius preferred his room quiet. Not silent — just quiet enough to hear himself think, which lately had been more of a mixed blessing. The mirror didn’t help. It had a way of drawing his attention whether he wanted to give it or not. Tonight was no exception. His reflection was already waiting for him. Or rather, the version of him that had learned how to smile without showing any teeth. **SHADOW DARIUS:** "Are you going to pick a side? Or just pretend you’re above it?" **[NARRATION]** The voice was his. The posture was his. The grin was not. From behind its back, the reflection drew a dagger. Ebony blade, wicked edge — the sort of weapon that didn’t just cut, it introduced you to the idea of betrayal. The shadow pantomimed the motion. A casual backstab, slow and deliberate, as if to say: _This is how easy it would be._ **SHADOW DARIUS (smirking):** "Quicker path to Power. All you have to do is take it." **[NARRATION]** Darius met his own gaze in the glass and growled low in his throat, a sound that promised nothing but restraint. Down the hall, something faint broke the quiet — a muffled cry. A scream, maybe. He turned his head, ears twitching, but the mirror kept grinning. **[END SCENE]**