Momentarily Fate turns her attention towards Jin-Woo. The setting sun paints the sky in hues of orange and purple, illuminating the bloody hue of merely moments before. Casting long shadows across the windswept clifftop.
Fate: *Gestures dismissively towards Jin-Woo, David and the children.* It's best if you and David take the kids for a little walk.
Jin-Woo: *Instantly on his guard, he frowns slightly at her.* How come?
Fate: *Sighs dramatically, rolling her eyes.* Because… *She intentionally drew the word out longer in sheer annoyance.* You're still wearing Christopher's skin, and it could be a distraction. Now stop asking stupid questions and leave us alone for a little bit, would you?
Monja nods to Jin-Woo, giving him a reassuring smile. He hesitates for a moment, glancing between her and Fate, before taking hold of Lerato's hand and leading her down a gentler slope of the cliff, David and Lloyd trailing behind. The wind carries snippets of their conversation – Lerato's excited chatters, David's deep voice rumbling in response.
Monja: *Watches them go, a flicker of worry in her eyes. She then turns back to Fate with the knowledge that Jin-Woo and David won't let any harm come to her kids.* Alright, they're gone. What do I need to do?
Fate: *Turns her attention back to Monja, their expression suddenly serious.* I need you to focus on Christopher… not Jin-Woo's vessel, or his current body, occupied by another inhabitant. Focus solely on his soul, trapped in the Inbetween.
Monja: *Bites down on her lip, her brow furrowed in concentration.* The Inbetween… is that like… another dimension?
Fate: *Nods slowly.* It's a space between worlds. A realm of shadows and echoes. Reach out to him. Be a light on his path. Communicate telepathically.
Monja closes her eyes, takes a deep breath, and tries to clear her mind. The wind whispers around her, carrying the scent of salt and the distant cries of seagulls. She thinks of Christopher, of his smile, his laugh, the warmth of his personality. A wave of dizziness washes over her as she reaches out with her mind, searching for him in the vast emptiness of the Inbetween.
Monja: *Concentrates, her face pale with effort. Whispers escape her lips, barely audible above the wind.* Christopher… Christopher, can you hear me?
The silence stretches, broken only by the now relentless wind. Doubt begins to creep into her mind, a cold tendril of fear twisting in her gut. What if she can't reach him? What if he's lost forever.
Fate: *Watches Monja intently, her expression unreadable. A flicker of something – amusement? Anticipation? - crosses her face.* Patience, Monja. He's there… don't just search with your mind… use your heart and soul too…